The Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, Ewurabena Aubynn, has urged the government to take urgent practical steps to improve the welfare of persons with albinism as Ghana prepares to observe International Albinism Awareness Day on Saturday, June 13.
In a statement to Parliament, Ewurabena Aubynn highlighted the persistent challenges faced by persons with albinism, including discrimination, stigma, and serious health risks, while commending this year’s global theme, “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones.”
“Persons with albinism continue to encounter discrimination, stigma and exclusion,” the MP noted.
She added that while Ghana has been spared the extreme violence seen in some African countries, significant social, economic, and health-related challenges remain.
Albinism is a genetically inherited condition characterized by reduced or absent melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Persons with albinism often suffer visual impairments and are at heightened risk of skin damage and skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation — a situation worsened by Ghana’s tropical climate and intense sunlight.
Ewurabena Aubynn identified skin cancer as one of the most pressing concerns, noting that access to sunscreen, regular dermatological care, and treatment remains limited for many. Eye care services, assistive devices, and educational support are also inadequate, affecting education and employment opportunities.
She further drew attention to bullying and lack of classroom accommodations in schools, as well as employment discrimination that limits economic participation and affects mental health.
Citing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and protection from discrimination, the Ablekuma North MP called on the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and other stakeholders to act decisively.
She proposed the provision of subsidized or free sunscreen and skin cancer screening services, expansion of specialized dermatological and ophthalmological care nationwide, and the inclusion of approved sunscreen products under the National Health Insurance Scheme.
The MP also advocated strengthening inclusive education through the provision of assistive devices, appropriate learning materials and teacher support, promoting employment opportunities and economic empowerment programmes for persons with albinism, intensifying public education campaigns to eliminate myths, stereotypes and discrimination, expanding access to mental health and psychosocial support services, and improving data collection to support evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation.
“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,” Ewurabena Aubynn stated.
She concluded by urging all Ghanaians to embrace the theme of the day and work collectively to eliminate discrimination and promote full inclusion of persons with albinism in national development.