Kenya Marks World Albinism Awareness Day With a Call for Inclusion, Respect and Action
The event served as both a celebration and a rallying cry for the dignity, protection and inclusion of persons living with albinism in Kenya.
International Albinism Awareness Day 2025 at Huruma Grounds in Uasin Gishu County, under the global theme: “Demanding our rights, protect our skin, preserve our lives.” Photo/UG County.
By Juliet Jerotich
Kenya’s First Lady, Her Excellency Rachel Ruto, led the nation in marking International Albinism Awareness Day 2025 at Huruma Grounds in Uasin Gishu County, under the global theme: “Demanding our rights, protect our skin, preserve our lives.”
The event served as both a celebration and a rallying cry for the dignity, protection and inclusion of persons living with albinism in Kenya.
Quoting writer Audrey Lorde, the First Lady emphasized the importance of embracing diversity: “It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept and celebrate those differences.” She noted that the event symbolized Kenya’s growing commitment to inclusivity, driven by legislative strides such as the recent enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 4 of 2025.
“We are here to affirm that people living with albinism are full members of our society who deserve equal opportunities, protection, and recognition,” said the First Lady.
She applauded community-driven efforts and government initiatives, such as the free distribution of sunscreen to over 3,800 individuals, and shared the inspiring journeys of Hon. Isaac Mwaura and Justice Grace Mumbi Ngugi as symbols of resilience and progress.
Hon. Mwaura, now Kenya’s Government Spokesperson, was recognized for his advocacy and founding of the Albinism Society of Kenya in 2006. Justice Mumbi Ngugi, a High Court Judge, was celebrated for overcoming discrimination to become a symbol of hope and empowerment.
The First Lady emphasized that the challenges faced by people with albinism are not individual, but systemic: “This is not merely an act of kindness but a fundamental right that we must all champion.”
Governor Jonathan Bii of Uasin Gishu echoed the message of inclusion and dignity. “Protection is not a charity. It is an obligation. Equal opportunity is not negotiable — it is constitutional,” he stated.
The governor commended the First Lady’s presence, noting it signals that albinism is not a marginal issue, but a national priority.
Governor Bii shared local historical anecdotes illustrating societal stigma, including one where a family hid a child with albinism out of fear. He urged Kenyans to come out of such shadows of shame: “If you have a Chemugere in your home, let her come out. Let him shine.”
The governor announced the county’s plans to embed inclusivity in governance through mainstreaming units, disability advisory committees, and healthcare access programs. He also highlighted the growing success of the Mama Rachel Ruto Maternity Hospital, which has delivered over 2,600 babies and is becoming a regional healthcare hub.
As the event concluded, both leaders called on all Kenyans to challenge stigma, support inclusive policies, and advocate for the rights of persons with albinism. “Kenya will thrive,” said the First Lady, “when we embrace diversity and extend our support to all members of our communities.”
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