The Stream

Albinism’s deadly stigma in Tanzania

What’s behind ritual killings and violence against people with albinism?

In Tanzania, myths and misguided beliefs in witchcraft continue to fuel violence against people with albinism. Five attacks against those with the pigmentation disorder were reported in August. Tanzanians are being mutilated for their body parts, as those who believe in superstition claim that an albino hand or leg can be used to gain power and wealth. What should be done to end threats against those with albinism? 

In this episode, we speak with:

Gamariel Mboya @GamarielM
Advocate for people with albinism, Under the Same Sun

Vicky Ntetema
Executive Director, Under the Same Sun
underthesamesun.com

Al-Shaymaa Kwegyir @AKwegyir
Tanzanian MP

Abdallah Possi @AbdallahPossi
Lawyer and professor

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.