The Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism (GAPA) has called on the government to establish a dedicated national fund for skin cancer prevention and treatment as part of efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of persons with albinism across the country.
The appeal was made in a statement marking the 2026 International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), celebrated on June 13 under the theme, “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones.”
According to GAPA, the theme highlights the need to move beyond perceptions of physical appearance and focus on the dignity, rights, contributions, and lived experiences of persons with albinism, many of whom continue to face discrimination and social exclusion.
The association noted that colour-based discrimination, harmful stereotypes, and misconceptions about albinism continue to affect access to education, healthcare, employment, and social participation, while also contributing to psychological challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and social isolation.
GAPA expressed concern that skin cancer remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths among persons with albinism in Africa and called for sustained investment in prevention, screening, treatment, rehabilitation, and related healthcare services.
The association further urged the government to establish specialised skin and eye care units in regional hospitals to provide comprehensive dermatological and ophthalmological services, including access to sunscreen, routine skin examinations, low-vision support, assistive devices, and specialised medical care.
It also highlighted the impact of climate change on persons with albinism, noting that rising temperatures and increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation pose heightened health risks for the community. GAPA therefore called for stronger climate action and environmental protection measures to safeguard vulnerable populations.
As part of its recommendations, the association appealed for intensified nationwide public education campaigns to combat stigma and discrimination, while promoting positive attitudes and acceptance of persons with albinism.
It also called on educational institutions, employers, and public service providers to adopt inclusive policies and provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal opportunities for persons with albinism.
Reaffirming its commitment to advocacy, GAPA pledged to continue working with government agencies, development partners, disability rights organisations, traditional leaders, religious bodies, and the media to advance the rights and welfare of persons with albinism.
The association urged Ghanaians to embrace diversity, reject discrimination, and support efforts to build a society where every individual, regardless of skin tone, can live with dignity, equality, safety, and hope.
