A gathering on albinism sensitisation in Karonga today featured distinguished geneticist and author Gudrun Anna Rappold as guest of honour. In her keynote address, Prof. Rappold highlighted the urgent need to dispel harmful myths and misconceptions surrounding people with albinism.
She stressed that albinism is not the fault of one parent, but rather a genetic condition passed on from both parents — a fact often misunderstood in many communities. She noted that such misconceptions have fuelled stigma, discrimination, and in extreme cases, the killing of people with albinism.
Prof. Rappold’s latest book, Albinism: Just a Gene, addresses these issues head-on, aiming to educate communities and promote respect and safety for people with albinism. She expressed hope that increased awareness would help eliminate the harmful practices and beliefs that threaten their lives.
The sensitisation event brought together community leaders, human rights advocates, and members of the public, all committed to spreading accurate information and fostering inclusion.
> “Knowledge is the strongest protection we can give,” Rappold said, urging everyone to be ambassadors of truth about albinism.
Reported by -James Kaonga