– The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) is joining global efforts to support the rights of people with albinism in South Africa, commencing on June 27, 2024.
The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) is a government department in South Africa. Its mandate is to lead socio-economic transformation and empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities through mainstreaming, advocacy, monitoring, and evaluation.
Albinism is a rare genetic condition affecting about 1 in 4,000 people in the country. It causes a lack of melanin pigment, leading to lifelong physical challenges for those affected. Accessing quality education, employment opportunities, and full participation in the economy are particularly challenging for young people with disabilities, including those with albinism.
The National Albinism Task Force and Amnesty International are urging the South African government to take immediate action to protect and promote the rights of people with albinism. They advocate for accountability for those who violate these rights.
Advocate Mikateko Maluleke, the Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), emphasizes the importance of educating young South Africans about albinism. “For this reason, we call on all the youth of South Africa to support youth programs and initiatives from civil society, government, and the private sector aimed at educating and raising awareness about albinism.” South Africa’s Constitution guarantees everyone’s right to life. People with disabilities, especially young individuals, require special care to safeguard this right. The Department’s campaign on Disability Rights Awareness encourages groups and businesses to invest in public education to dispel misconceptions and combat discrimination against people with albinism
