NW albinos push for inclusive healthcare services.

Members of the association were received by the Regional Delegate for Public Health for the North West, Dr Lionel Ambe. 

The meeting was aimed at calling for more inclusive and equitable healthcare services that address the unique medical challenges faced by people with albinism.

During the meeting, Ngom Marceline and her delegation laid out the association’s concerns, including the urgent need for early skin cancer detection, ophthalmological treatment, and improved access to vision care and sunscreen, essential items often unavailable or unaffordable to those who need them most. 

“We want to move beyond just awareness. We are advocating for actionable steps that address our health challenges and protect our community,” Ngom Marceline said.

According to Ngom, AWA’s initiative aligned closely with the global theme for this year’s observance, which calls for a shift from symbolic gestures to meaningful inclusion of people with albinism in all sectors of life. 

“This day is about visibility, but more importantly, it is about action. We are here not just to talk about our condition, but to demand the same rights to health, education, and employment as every other Cameroonian,” she added.

She noted that AWA hopes that their advocacy efforts will pave the way for future collaborations with public institutions, non-governmental organisations and the medical community to deliver sustained impact.

Ngom insisted that AWA was founded with the mission of defending the rights of people with albinism, continues to fight against discrimination, advocate for access to inclusive services, and educate the public about the realities of living with albinism. Their call this year is clear: from visibility to viability, from awareness to action.

Dr Ambe in his welcome address, acknowledged the pressing issues raised and lauded the association for its efforts toward improving the lives of persons with albinism. 

“This is a commendable initiative. Your voices are being heard, and as a regional health office, we are committed to ensuring that people with albinism are not left behind in healthcare delivery,” he said.

He pledged not only to support the project presented by AWA but also to advocate for it at higher administrative levels. 

He committed to pushing for government subsidies on skin protection products and specialised treatments and promised that the project file submitted by the association would be monitored closely.

The official and the association also discussed on the need to combat social exclusion through education and awareness campaigns, as well as by ensuring that people with albinism are fully integrated into educational systems and employment programs.

The delegation left the meeting encouraged, with renewed optimism that their concerns will translate into concrete policy decisions and improved access to care.

Albinism, it should be said is a rare, genetically inherited condition that results in the absence or reduction of melanin pigment in the skin, eyes, and hair. 

According to reports, in Cameroon, individuals with albinism often face a double burden medical vulnerability, particularly to skin cancer and vision impairment, and persistent social stigma.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3476 of Tuesday June 17, 2025