Safe Under the Sun – Protection for Refugees with Albinism
Safe Under the Sun
Individuals with albinism have little to no melanin, which makes them highly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer. In regions with high UV levels like Nakivale, this risk is especially severe. While sun exposure is a minor concern for most people, those with albinism who lack protection face repeated exposure that can cause permanent skin damage and, over time, life-threatening illness.
Most refugees with albinism in the settlement lack access to basic protection such as sunscreen or hats. When available, skin cancer treatment is much more expensive than prevention. Without intervention, a preventable condition can become a medical emergency that is often financially out of reach.
This project supplies protective kits—including hats, sunglasses, body lotion, and soap—to 46 individuals with albinism in Nakivale, as well as sanitary supplies for women in the group. Providing these basic tools is a simple and effective way to prevent serious health complications and future medical costs.
About the Local Leader
Albert Ininhazwe is the founder and director of Refugees with Albinism, an organization that supports and advocates for refugees with albinism in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement. Albert himself lives with albinism, providing him with a direct and informed understanding of his community’s needs, grounded in personal experience rather than external observation alone.
His work addresses critical healthcare needs, raises awareness, and ensures that individuals with albinism are protected, empowered, and included in their communities. He leads initiatives that meet urgent medical needs while also building long-term systems of care, so support continues beyond immediate crises.
NBG is proud to partner with Albert to advance his mission of promoting dignity, awareness, and opportunity for refugees with albinism, and to support the development of lasting infrastructure for his community.
