Women with albinism fight GBV

Tambirai Maruta
Women with albinism have called for greater awareness of their rights and protection from gender-based violence (GBV).
Chitungwiza resident, Sunshine Mukombe, one of the victims of GBV, stressed that it is essential for women with albinism to find understanding partners, as lack of comprehension can lead to discrimination and violence.

“GBV against women with albinism comes as a result of lack of understanding by the husband who takes advantage of her condition and resorts to violence if she refuses to submit.

“Tackling gender-based violence should start with us women with albinism by finding the right partner who understands our condition and is willing to accept us the way we are,” said Mukombe.

Sharai Gandi, a primary school teacher with albinism, said that spousal abuse often arises from a belief that the husband did the woman a favour by marrying her due to her condition.

She called for education on women’s rights and for the community to engage with and support those facing abuse.

“A woman with albinism will be forced to put up with the husband’s behaviors whether it be drunkenness, extramarital affairs or suppressing her views.

“Government and other private organisations should go into different communities, identify women with albinism and educate them on their rights as women to help boost their self-esteem,” said Gandi.