APAM calls for enhanced security for persons with albinism ahead of elections

Machinga, June 18, mana: The Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) has called for more action to strengthen security for the protection of persons with Albinism in the country while ensuring inclusivity in electoral system as Malawi heads to general elections in September.

APAM President, Young Muhamba, made the call at Michongwe Primary School, Ntaja in Machinga District on Tuesday during commemoration of International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) under the theme; United for Peace and Inclusion: Strengthen Protection of Persons with Albinism Towards Elections.

He said there was need for collective action to safeguard the rights and safety of peesons with albinism in the current election perioed.

“Unfortunately, we've already registered five cases of attempted abduction while some people tamper with graveyards of bodies of persons with albinism. This is a trend that escalates during elections.

“There should be an establishment of a vibrant presidential task force to strengthen laws and regulations that should ensure total protection of persons with albinism,” Muhamba added.

Additionally, he advocated for increased access to sunscreen lotions in hospitals, speedy justice delivery, and putting mechanism that should dispel myths that perpetuate attacks against persons with albinism.

Minister of Defence, Monica Chan’ganamuno assured people with albinism and the nation the government was committed in addressing the concerns raised by APAM.

"The brutal killing of individuals with albinism for ritual purposes is diabolical. I urge the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to collaborate with us in sensitising political leaders to prioritise constructive policies and manifestos that attract votes, rather than resorting to harmful and exploitative practices,” she said.

Chang’anamuno therefore called on political leaders to focus on development-oriented agendas, promoting a culture of respect for human rights and dignity.

“We must create an environment where persons with albinism can live without fear of persecution or violence, and where their rights are safeguarded and respected,” she added.

Traditional leaders and community members were also encouraged to condemn attacks, killing and all forms of violence against persons with albinism due to myths.

Paramount Chief Kawinga noted a significant decline in attacks on persons with albinism in Machinga, attributing the decline to continous advocacy and collaborative community sensitisation on rights of persons with albinism.

“Machinga was once severely affected by brutal killings, but thanks to the tireless work of stakeholders in raising awareness and educating our communities, we've seen a reduction in atacks on persons with albinism.

“Enhanced security measures have also played a crucial role in protecting persons with albinism, allowing them to live safely in their homes,” the Paramount Chief added.

Machinga recorded 170 cases that included killings and abductions exhuming of graveyards of remains of person with albinism since

Among the cases was of that of a Two years old boy with albinism, Ibra Pilo of Traditional Authority Mchinguza, who was abducted and was leter found beheaded while another killing of Nine years old Harry Mokoshoni was recorded at Traditiobnal Authority Chikweo.

Tha nation was also shocked with another killing of a person with albinism, a 22 years old Macdonald Masambuka whose death saw 12 people answering in court charges ranging from murder to extracting human tissues.

Catholic preiest, Thomas Muhosha, Police Officer, Chikondi Chileka, Clinician, Lumbani Kamanga and MacDonald’s borther, Cassim Masambuka were mentioned in the kiiling and were prosecuted on various charges and jaileed.