The number with albinism in Malawi is around 135,000.
Since 2014, an alarming increase in human rights abuses against people with albinism has been registered, including abductions, killings, and grave robberies. They are being targeted for their body parts by those who believe that they contain magical powers and bring good luck. As a result, they live in fear of losing their lives to criminal gangs.
However, day to day, the problems are more health-related, with many suffering from burns and skin cancer. The Malawi Millenium Project (MMP) began supporting children affected by albinism. It approached Beyond Suncare and offered £4000 for their skin cancer preventative services for forty children for a year. It includes customised sunscreen, comprehensive education, and skincare surveillance.
Beyond Suncare is a leading organisation in the provision of sun protection. It's behind the development of the first sunscreen specially designed for the prevention of skin cancer in people with albinism.
Produced locally, the cream is distributed to the most remote areas through mobile clinics, health centres, and schools. Beyond Suncare ensures the provision of education and awareness to users and their families. It promotes their rehabilitation into society, through dignified care that helps to raise their self-esteem and self-sufficiency.