Lerato Mekgwe, a Social Work Supervisor, advocates for Albinism awareness and dispels harmful myths. Picture: Supplied
Lerato Mekgwe, a Social Work Supervisor at the Gauteng social development n department, has led initiatives throughout Albinism Awareness Month in September to promote awareness of the condition and dispel stereotypes about it.
Mekgwe's activism is not just professional, but also extremely personal, as she lives with albinism.
Mekgwe highlighted startling statistics, citing research by Professor Trevor Jenkins from the South African Institute of Medical Research, which discovered that "one in thirty-five, 1/35, Black South Africans is a carrier of the Albinism mutation gene."
This emphasises the significance of de-stigmatising the condition and informing the public about the realities of albinism.
"During this month, our focus is on providing information to raise awareness and educate the public about Albinism," said Mekgwe.
She emphasised the importance of September as a time to focus on the issues that people with albinism experience, with the goal of eradicating harmful misconceptions and superstitions that have traditionally contributed to stigma and discrimination.
Mekgwe explained that albinism, an inherited disorder that affects the body's ability to create melanin, has an influence on pigmentation in the skin, hair, and eyes.
"Albinism affects people of all races and remains misunderstood, both socially and medically," Mekgwe said.
Mekgwe pointed out that 2024 marks ten years since the launch of International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), with this year’s theme being “10 years of IAAD: A decade of collective progress.” The milestone serves as a reminder of how far the movement has come in dispelling misconceptions, but also how much more work remains.
“Albinism is not a disease. It’s a genetic condition and not contagious. People are born with Albinism when they inherit the gene from their parents,” said Mekgwe.
Mekgwe passionately took the chance to challenge some harmful myths that are still prevalent in society.
"People with Albinism are not cursed, less intelligent, or possess magical properties," she said, dismissing these false beliefs that have perpetuated superstitions, particularly in rural areas.
She advocated for increased societal inclusion and understanding, emphasising that discrimination against people with albinism is not just erroneous but also damaging.
The persistent obstacles they encounter, such as social exclusion and dangerous attacks in some regions of the continent, highlight the importance of education.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in collaboration with the Albinism Society of South Africa (ASSA), is committed to providing ongoing support for the social needs of persons with Albinism.
This includes offering resources to help them navigate the unique challenges they face, both medically and socially.
Mekgwe's leadership and commitment to this cause are helping to shift public perceptions and open up critical conversations about the experiences of people with Albinism.
With her personal insight and professional dedication, she continues to shine a light on the realities of Albinism in South Africa and beyond.
As the September Albinism Awareness campaigns begin, Mekgwe's message is clear: education and understanding are the most potent instruments for dispelling stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.
"Albinism affects us all," she said, explaining the importance of collective responsibility in creating a more inclusive society in which everyone, regardless of genetic make up, can live without fear of discrimination.
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