Eight attacks involving killings, disappearances and grave exhumations have reignited security fears for persons with albinism.
The Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) says the incidents have been recorded since August last year, warning that the resurgence threatens years of progress made in protecting the rights and lives of persons with albinism.
APAM President Young Muhamba disclosed the figures on Thursday in Lilongwe during the launch of a report titled “I Just Want to Work Without Fear: Economic Exclusion and Discrimination Against Persons with Albinism in Malawi,” a study jointly produced by APAM, Human Rights Watch and the African Albinism Network.
Muhamba said the recent incidents signal a worrying trend at a time when stakeholders have been working to improve the safety and welfare of persons with albinism across the country.
“We have seen a resurgence of attacks against persons with albinism. Since August, we have recorded eight cases, including murder, missing persons and grave exhumations. These are numbers we would normally register over an entire year,” he said.
Beyond security concerns, the report highlights widespread barriers that persons with albinism continue to face in accessing education, employment and economic opportunities. It also calls for increased investment in programmes aimed at promoting inclusion and economic independence.
Muhamba welcomed the report, describing it as a reflection of issues that APAM has consistently raised, including the need for stronger implementation of policies and greater participation of persons with albinism in decision-making processes.
Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Mary Navicha said the findings provide government with valuable evidence to strengthen interventions targeting persons with albinism and other persons with disabilities.
“The report highlights critical challenges affecting persons with albinism, and as government we will continue working with various stakeholders to ensure these concerns are addressed through policies, programmes and coordinated action,” she said.
Human Rights Watch Disability Rights Director Elizabeth Kamundia said while attacks against persons with albinism remain a major concern, discrimination continues to affect almost every aspect of their lives.
“Our findings show that, beyond killings and abductions, persons with albinism face discrimination in education, employment and social protection, making it essential to address both security and socio-economic exclusion,” she said.
The report recommends full funding and implementation of the revised National Action Plan on Albinism, stronger protections against workplace discrimination, inclusive education policies and intensified efforts to combat stigma and harmful misconceptions affecting persons with albinism in Malawi.
