Lions School for the Visually Impaired in Ndola, celebrates International Albinism Awareness Day: A Call to Protect, Educate, and Empower

In a powerful show of solidarity and advocacy, the Lions School for the Visually Impaired in Ndola hosted a vibrant outreach program to commemorate International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) under the global theme: “Demanding our rights: Protect our skin, Preserve our lives.” The event gathered more than 100 students, educators, disability rights advocates, and UN partners in a powerful effort to amplify awareness and promote the rights of persons with albinism (PwA).

Spearheaded by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the UN Information Centre (UNIC) Lusaka, and the UN Zambia Leave No One Behind (LNOB) Theme Group, the outreach initiative aimed to educate young minds and confront the myths and persistent discrimination that stand in the way of  PwA fully enjoying their rights in Zambia and beyond.

Speaking via a video message, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms Beatrice Mutali, noted that many persons living with albinism in Zambia and elsewhere continue to face stigma, discrimination and violence fueled by harmful myths and misconceptions.

“As a community, we must remain resolute in standing together to fight for the rights, dignity and inclusion of persons with Albinism. This means rejecting false beliefs, promoting awareness and ensuring access and availability to essential healthcare like skin protection. Additionally, education and employment opportunities must be open to all, creating an environment where persons with Albinism can thrive without fear.”  

The commemoration was marked by engaging visual presentations, an engaging question-and-answer session, and a touching testimony from one of the learners. The school was purposefully chosen for its inclusive environment, and  diverse student body, which includes learners living with albinism.

Opening the event, Ms Sekani Bwalya from OHCHR emphasized the critical importance of the day’s message, calling for immediate and sustained action to protect the rights and lives of PWA. She said that “Every person with albinism has the right to live free from fear, discrimination, and violence—human rights are for everyone, without exception.” 

The program highlighted the genetic nature of albinism, the serious health risks posed by exposure to the sun , and the deeply rooted harmful superstitions that have led to violence, exclusion, marginalization targeting persons with Albinism. The audience was reminded of the UN’s ongoing commitment to protecting persons with Albinism through legal reforms, awareness-raising campaigns, and initiatives that promote their full inclusion and participation in society.

A teacher from Lions School, Mr. Dauti Chanda, reflected on the impact of the event, “Our students now understand that their condition is not a curse, but a part of their identity that deserves respect and protection. This program has empowered them to speak up and stand tall.”

A learner, Victor….  who participated in the outreach said, “Sometimes people treat me differently because of how I look. But today, I feel proud. I know I have rights, and I know I’m not alone.”

In a generous gesture of support, Disability Rights Watch group and Cheshire Homes International donated sunscreen and protective hats to learners living with albinism—an essential step in helping them manage the health risks associated with their condition.

The event concluded with a collective call to action: to dispel myths, end discrimination, and ensure that no one is left behind as enshrined in the Pact of the Future.