Persons with albinism in Malawi continue to face discrimination, social exclusion and economic hardships despite efforts to curb attacks targeting the group, Human Rights Watch has said.
The concerns are contained in findings of a study conducted across nine districts in the country to assess the lived experiences of persons with albinism.
Director of the disability rights division at the watchdog, Elizabeth Kamundia, said the research engaged more than 80 participants, including persons with albinism, family members, community leaders, organizations representing persons with albinism and human rights groups.
She said the findings show that while physical security remained a concern, many challenges affecting persons with albinism extended beyond attacks and killings.
According to the report, persons with albinism continue to face social exclusion, psychological distress, limited economic opportunities and gaps in protection mechanisms intended to safeguard their rights and welfare.
As a result, the lobby group has called for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing challenges affecting the group.
“We need a comprehensive and inclusive approach that cuts across barriers around social protection, social participation, general welfare, healthcare, employment and education,” Kamundia said.
She added that the recommendations outlined in the report can only be effectively implemented through collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations and development partners.
“But this will only be achieved if stakeholders like government institutions, civil society organizations and development partners join hands in implementing the recommendations made in the report,” she said.
Ahead of the reports official launch on Friday, Human Rights Watch briefed Vice President Jane Ansah at her Mudi Residence in Blantyre on the studys findings and the challenges confronting persons with albinism in Malawi.
Meanwhile, the rights watchdog has urged government to review the National Action Plan on Albinism and increase funding towards its implementation.
She said improved financing of the action plan would strengthen protection measures and help address the social and economic barriers identified in the study.
Adequate resources, Kamundia said, would also promote greater social inclusion and enable persons with albinism to enjoy equal rights, opportunities and protection under the law.