The high unemployment rate among people with albinism in Namibia remains a serious concern, largely driven by stigma, discrimination, and misconceptions about their abilities.

Speaking at the International Albinism Awareness Day commemoration in Eenhana, Ileni Nangolo from the Chief Complaints Investigation Office in the Office of the Ombudsman highlighted the challenges that people with albinism face in securing jobs — including negative social attitudes, poor eyesight, and limited access to education and skills development.

“Persons with disabilities are encouraged to report any form of discrimination within the employment sector to the labour commissioner, Employment Equity Commission, the Disability Council, and the Office of the Ombudsman,” said Nangolo.

Discrimination by employers and broader social prejudice often prevent persons with albinism from finding work, despite their qualifications or potential.

Petrina Mwahafa, a person with albinism, noted that the effects of discrimination are far-reaching.

She said stigma “impacts mental health, social participation, and overall well-being.”

Gospel artist Sovita Joshua encouraged individuals with albinism to have confidence and to believe in their worth.

“Myself, growing up with albinism, I went through a lot. I was mocked… I would even question God, ‘Why did you create me like this?’ But today I have come to realize that I am fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God,” she shared.

“Don’t look down on yourself. You are beautifully and wonderfully made.”

President of the Namibia Association for People with Albinism, Joseph Ndinomupya, urged the Ministry of Health to reinstate the distribution of free sunscreen at all state hospitals.

“Ministry of Health, I urge you again… We want this to be in all health facilities. They are no longer there. The government has made a provision and announcement that they will provide this,” he said.

Parents were also encouraged to send their children with albinism to school and to ensure they are registered with proper identification.

Matthew Hashoongo, chairperson of the National Federation of People with Disabilities in Namibia, called for stronger budgetary support.

“Let us demand the budget for assistive devices not only for albinism but also for other disabilities as well,” he said.