Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, Hon. Ewurabena Aubynn, has called on government and stakeholders to take urgent practical steps to protect the rights, health, and dignity of persons with albinism as Ghana joins the world to mark International Albinism Awareness Day 2026.
Speaking in Parliament on Friday, June 13, under the theme “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones” the MP said the day reminds Ghanaians to embrace diversity, reject colour-based discrimination, and affirm equal worth for persons with albinism.
She noted that while Ghana has not recorded the extreme violence seen in parts of Africa, persons with albinism still face stigma, social exclusion, and major health challenges.
Key concerns she raised include the high risk of skin cancer due to Ghana’s intense sunlight, limited access to sunscreen and dermatological care, visual impairments affecting education and jobs, and bullying in schools.
“Access to sunscreen, regular dermatological care and treatment remains beyond the reach of many,”_ Hon. Aubynn stated. _“Visual impairments associated with albinism can affect education and employment opportunities.”
Citing Article 17 of the 1992 Constitution and Ghana’s obligations under international human rights instruments, she urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and relevant agencies to act.
Her recommendations include: Health: Provide subsidized or free sunscreen + skin cancer screening; include approved sunscreen under NHIS; expand dermatological and ophthalmological care nationwide
Education: Strengthen inclusive education with assistive devices, learning materials, and teacher support to curb bullying
Economy: Promote employment opportunities and economic empowerment programmes
Awareness: Intensify public education to eliminate myths and discrimination; expand mental health/psychosocial support
Data: Improve data collection for evidence-based policymaking
Hon. Aubynn concluded: “Let us work together to eliminate discrimination, promote inclusion and ensure that persons with albinism can live, learn, work and contribute fully to national development.”
International Albinism Awareness Day is observed globally every June 13 to highlight the condition and advocate for the rights of persons with albinism.
“Mr. Speaker, as we commemorate International Albinism Awareness Day 2026, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a society where every citizen is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of appearance or genetic condition.
In the spirit of this year’s theme, “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones,” let us work together to eliminate discrimination, promote inclusion and ensure that persons with albinism can live, learn, work and contribute fully to national development”.
