Fiji Takes Steps Towards Inclusion for Individuals with Albinism

One in every 700 Fijians is estimated to have albinism, according to Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa. Speaking during the celebrations of International Albinism Awareness Day in Suva, Ravunawa emphasized the need for more reliable national data regarding the condition, acknowledging that globally, albinism affects about one in 20,000 people.

Ravunawa highlighted that the Ministry of Health is making efforts to actively register persons living with albinism (PLWA) in Fiji, recognizing the dual challenges faced by this community: health risks and social stigmas. He noted that while Fiji has not experienced the extreme forms of violence seen in other parts of the world against those with albinism, there are still significant structural and social barriers that hinder their full inclusion in society and access to healthcare services.

To address these challenges, the Ministry has allocated $200,000 in its budget for programs specifically aimed at supporting individuals with albinism. These programs include enhanced skin cancer screening and outreach initiatives in both urban and rural settings.

Minister Sashi Kiran has previously pointed to the importance of compassion and education in confronting the misconceptions that lead to discrimination against children with albinism. She highlighted local narratives and languages as crucial tools for fostering understanding and dismantling stigma. Although there is an ongoing push to improve awareness, there remains a notable gap in medical assistance, as only about 200 individuals out of an estimated 700 with albinism have sought necessary support.

These collective efforts underline a hopeful path for the future, suggesting that with continued community education and government support, Fiji has the potential to create a more inclusive environment for individuals with albinism and other health challenges. By combining awareness-raising with systematic support measures, there is an opportunity for significant social change and improved health outcomes in Fiji.