Standard Chartered with the support of the Diversity and Inclusion Disability, Wellness and Mental Health Employee Network has joined Engage Now Africa and the Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism in raising awareness in Accra.

In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly established June 13, as International Albinism Awareness Day to create awareness and inclusion of Persons with Albinism (PWAs) to prevent attacks and discrimination against such people.

Albinism is a genetic condition characterised by a lack of pigment in the hair, skin and eyes. It affects people of all ethnic backgrounds around the world.

The day provides an opportunity to educate the public about albinism, challenge stereotypes and advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with albinism.

It is also a day to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with albinism in various fields.

This year’s celebration was under the theme “Inclusion is strength” and it also marked the 20th anniversary of the Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism (GAPA).

The speakers at the event underscored the need to increase awareness about albinism and highlight the effects of discrimination persons with Albinism go through daily.

Representatives from the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection, the Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Education Service, the United Nations, the Ghana Federation for Disabled Organisations (GFD), as well as traditional authorities, were all in attendance. 

The event also focused on the risk factors of albinism which includes poor vision and skin cancers.

Standard Chartered with the support of Operation Eyesight Universal held an eye screening session for all participants.

Fifty individuals including women and children were screened, with recommendations given for further tests to those who require it.

The attendees were each provided with special eyeglasses to help reduce the effect of the sun’s rays on their eyes.