Albinism is an inherited, genetic condition. People with albinism exhibit little or no
pigment in eyes, skin or hair, and often have problems with vision and sensitive skin.
Albinism in Malawi is a qualitative project that has set out to examine attitudes and
beliefs related to people living with albinism in Malawi. The aim has been to assess what
implications albinism has on the lives of those born with it, and for their closest networ k
of family and friends.
Individual, in-depth interviews were carried out with 25 people with albinism, their
family members and others who were otherwise involved in the ir lives. Two different
translators were used in most of the interviews, as most people in Malawi do not speak
English, and the researcher does not speak any of the local languages. The translators
were both women with albinism.
The findings show that most people with albinism, as well as their families, have very
little knowledge about albinism, but know, and experience that albino-skin is very
sensitive to the sun, and therefore take precautions to prevent injury. Stories of common
myths were told, as well as stories of different relationships that are altered as a result of
one person being albino. Stories were also told of love and approval of people with
albinism. In Malawi people with albinism are considered, and consider themselves to be
disabled.
This thesis is submitted as partial completion of the degree Master of Philosophy in
International Community Health, and was financially sponsored by Save the Children
Norway’s Research Fund.