The United Nations (UN) in Malawi has expressed concern over threats to the safety of persons with albinism, which it says continue to be faced in Malawi and neighbouring countries.
The UN says that in recent years there have been documented cases of killings, abductions and exhumations of remains of persons with albinism due to harmful beliefs and practices, particularly during election periods.
“As Malawi heads towards its general elections in September 2025, the United Nations in Malawi urges all stakeholders to ensure heightened vigilance, protection and justice for persons with albinism.
“Elections must be a celebration of democracy, not a time of fear or insecurity for any group. Political leaders, security agencies, traditional authorities, civil society and the media all have a responsibility to protect the rights and lives of persons with albinism before, during and after the electoral process,” the UN said in a statement issued Thursday.
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Malawi is today joining the rest of the world in commemorating International Albinism Awareness Day, which seeks to raise awareness of the rights, safety and wellbeing of persons with albinism.
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The UN in Malawi says it stands in solidarity with persons with albinism and reaffirms the right of all individuals to live with dignity, safety and equality.
“Despite constitutional guarantees of equality and inclusion, persons with albinism continue to face disproportionate health risks and human rights violations.
“One of the most pressing challenges is the high rate of preventable deaths due to skin cancer, which remains the leading cause of death for persons with albinism in Sub- Saharan Africa,” it said.
On the other hand, the UN has commended the government of Malawi for making free sunscreen available in public health facilities.
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It has also commended Malawi for what it calls important steps taken in investigating and prosecuting perpetrators of attacks against persons with albinism.
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the mandate of an Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism by the Human Rights Council.
The statement quotes the current mandate holder, Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, who continues to call on governments to do more.
“Governments must prioritise legal protections, inclusive services and culturally sensitive education that dismantles stigma and discrimination. Only then can persons with albinism enjoy their full human rights in dignity and safety,” Miti-Drummond is quoted as saying.
