La Vie en Blanche: The Gendered Experience of Women with Albinism in Cameroon and Tanzania

Albinism is a rare recessive genetic condition that affects the production of melanin in the eyes, hair, and skin. Both the rareness of the condition and the distinction of albinism in black Africa have led to the... [ view full abstract ]

Albinism is a rare recessive genetic condition that affects the production of melanin in the eyes, hair, and skin. Both the rareness of the condition and the distinction of albinism in black Africa have led to the stigmatization, discrimination against, and persecution of people with albinism (PWA), particularly in Eastern and Southern Africa. Since 2000, more than 500 attacks and murders of PWA have been recorded across Sub-Saharan Africa, with 170 of these occurring in Tanzania.  My research looks beyond the persecution in Tanzania to examine more specifically the lived experiences of women with albinism living in rural areas and the barriers they face to social participation and mobility. 

PWA experience discrimination and exclusion in every aspect of their lives, starting with discouragement in educational settings, discrimination in employment, family planning, and exclusion from access to healthcare. This presentation will give an introduction to the local, national, and international barriers marginalizing and limiting women with albinism.