In April of this year, 4 Malawians, including a baby were murdered. Their crime? They were albinos. Albinism is a genetic condition resulting in little or no pigmentation in the skin, eyes, and hair. In countries like Nigeria, albinos face societal discrimination, but in countries like Malawi and Tanzania, their bones are hunted for ritual purposes.
The Mr and Miss Albinism contest that held in Nairobi on October 21, was no small deal.
Bigwig politicians including Isaac Mwaura, Kenya’s only albino Member of Parliament, were present at the first-of-it’s-kind event.
In all, 20 contestants got dolled up to cat-walk, sing and dance for the competition.
The contest was aimed at changing the narrative and showcasing the beauty of albinos in Kenya, and in Africa.
Many African countries see albinism as a curse, but Kenya is redefining what it means to be an albino.
MP Isaac Mwuara, who spearheaded the contest, said he wants to make the world understand albinos are not meant for money rituals.
Jarius Ong’etta was crowned Mr Albinism 2016.
While Miss Albinism went to Loise Lihanda.
