ALBINISM AND ITS WOES

The travails of a typical Albino popularly referred to as 'afin' in the Yoruba language is beyond words in Africa.

This obviously sounds strange to some people. Do albinos face 'tribulations' because they exist in that colour they've been born with? Why am I just hearing this for the first time? Well, I would say that this issue hasn't received more prominence in Nigeria because it doesn't really exist even though it does.

What is Albinism? How do we come about the existence of albinos? Have you ever been thrilled by the complexion of an albino man/woman? Do you ever wish you marry an albino? I know some many people who are thrilled by them or are you the type that disgusts them or attach spiritual meanings to their appearance?

Well, Albinism is a group of inherited conditions that leads to little or no pigmentation in the core parts of the body like the eyes, skin or hair. It is also a genetic mutation that causes a deficiency in melanin in the body.

The melanin is the photo-protective pigment that protects us from the sun’s harmful ultra-violet rays, resulting in
physical characteristics like white or light blonde hair, violet to blue eyes and an extremely pale skin that is particularly sensitive to the sun. Without enough melanin, our eyes won't be able to function properly and the nerve connection to the brain will also be altered.

If this is the case with albinism, why are albinos ridiculed, embarrassed and made living unbearable for in Africa?

People with albinism have been ‘shunned, ridiculed, tormented,tortured and killed in cold blood’ all over Africa, simply 'on account of the skin colour'.

Why are there negative beliefs concerning the condition? Is it pure illiteracy? African countries like Tanzania, Ethiopia, Burundi, Malawi, Congo and a host of others are involved in this inhumane treatment against Albinos!

Mind you, it is not a legal act in those countries but it happens. Albinos are kidnapped and murdered in their own blood. Even in Nigeria, people use albinos for rituals,as it is believed that their body parts can bring riches or can cure terminal diseases. They are called names like 'oyinbo' 'afin' 'ebo/ebora' and much more. In fact, if you don't have a strong immune system against foul talks, you will develop a bad self-esteem as an albino. Some also believed that albinos are ill or intellectually challenged or cursed.

Do you wonder why your albino-friend is always on long-sleeved clothing, hats and prescription glasses? Well, it a measure of protection against the sun.

Finally, Albinos do eat salt! I don't know where that myth about them not eating salt came from.

Dear readers, do you know someone guilty of contempt towards an albino? Or are you guilty of it yourself? Handover that ritualist in your area. Save an albino today, take care of them! They are your neighbour with a pigment difference!

Have a nice weekend!

EGO!
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