Around 38 000 people with albinism in Namibia

The Ministry of Health and Social Services says Namibia’s 2024 census has found that the country has roughly 38 000 people with albinism.

This was revealed by state dermatologist Dr Salem Nambahu at an Albinism Awareness Day at the Nkurenkuru Expo Hall in the Kavango West Region on Friday.

This year’s event took place under the theme ‘Demanding our Rights: Protect our Skin and Preserve our Lives’.

“This important day raises awareness of albinism and advocates the rights and protection of people with albinism in our community,” Nambahu said, adding that the decision to launch the campaign in the region was strategic and data-driven.

“We decided to begin this campaign here, because the Kavango has been reported to have a high number of people with albinism, and many of the late-stage skin cancer cases we’ve seen have come from this region,” she said.

A specialised medical outreach team successfully screened 101 people with albinism across the region in four days as part of a skin cancer prevention campaign launched on 9 June.

“The impressive screening numbers, averaging over 25 people per day, highlight both the significant need for such services in the region and the community’s enthusiastic response to the initiative,” Nambahu said.

She highlighted that the joint outreach effort aims to provide early detection services, education on sun protection, and preventive care to help reduce the number of advanced skin cancer cases in the albinism community.

“Let us remember that people with albinism are just like everyone else; they deserve dignity, protection, and equal opportunity. It starts with awareness, it grows with education, and it leads to acceptance.”

Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo said the government remains committed to upholding and defending the rights of all people irrespective of their physical traits or health-related needs.

She acknowledged that people with albinism experience unique challenges and applauded them for their courage, hope, and contribution to Namibia.

“You are not defined by your condition, but by your dreams, your determination, and your humanity. I commend your perseverance, and I want you to know, you are seen, loved and deeply appreciated,” she said.

She cautioned that it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure every Namibian is allowed to thrive in an environment that recognises their worth and supports their well-being. – Nampa

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