By The Government of Uganda has called for urgent action to address the continuing discrimination, health risks, and social exclusion faced by persons with albinism, as the country prepares to mark International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) on June 13, 2025.
Speaking ahead of the national commemoration, Hon. Asamo Hellen Grace, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, outlined a comprehensive agenda to protect the rights and dignity of persons with albinism, calling the public, local authorities, and institutions to move beyond awareness to practical support.
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“This year’s theme, ‘Demanding our Rights: Protect our Skin, Preserve our Lives’, highlights the urgent need for justice, equal treatment, and health protections for persons with albinism,” the minister said in a statement released on Wednesday.
The national event will take place in Mukono District and will be presided over by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister. Activities will include a peaceful march, health camps offering cancer and HIV screenings, media engagements, and exhibitions focused on inclusive innovation.
According to the 2024 Census by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), Uganda is home to 78,876 persons with albinism. Although they are officially recognized under the Persons with Disabilities Act (2020), they continue to face numerous barriers, including stigma, skin cancer risks, discrimination, and economic marginalization.
Hon. Asamo acknowledged several positive developments, including the establishment of a National Action Plan on Albinism (2020–2025), and integration of albinism-specific strategies into the National Cancer Control Plan. The National Special Grant for Persons with Disabilities has so far supported over 7,400 enterprise groups—though persons with albinism remain underrepresented in national programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Only 20% of persons with albinism have access to sun protection products, leaving many vulnerable to skin cancer, a leading health threat for this community. The minister urged the Ministry of Health to prioritize the inclusion of sunscreen on Uganda’s essential medicines list and expand dermatological services.
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She also called for targeted support in education and employment, stronger enforcement of laws against violence and property-related exploitation, and better data collection to inform gender-sensitive policies.
“Let us challenge harmful myths, protect lives, and provide equal opportunities,” Hon. Asamo said. “This is not only a matter of health or inclusion. It is a matter of justice.”
The Ministry is also calling on the media to amplify the voices of persons with albinism and ensure the public is informed about their rights, contributions, and challenges.
