Empowering Persons With Albinism In Mombasa County; Advocacy, Economic Empowerment, and Climate Change Resilience

Currently, the temperature at Mombasa is at 32 degrees celsius which translates to extremely high temperatures in comparison to cities like Nairobi and Nakuru whose temperatures vary between 26 and 27 degrees celsius.Mombasa is one of the cunties hit hardest by climate change and heatwave. Our team members experienced the heat and couldn't imagine how harder it must be for persons with albinism in Mombasa. In the county, our mission extended beyond mere training; it encompassed advocacy, economic empowerment, and a fervent drive towards climate change resilience, particularly tailored for individuals with albinism.

At the heart of our endeavors lies a profound commitment to equip individuals with albinism with the necessary tools to advocate for their own rights. Through intensive and extensive advocacy training sessions, we aim to empower them to articulate their needs, assert their rights, and navigate the complex landscape of social justice. Our project officer spearheaded the advocacy training, delving into the nuances of various advocacy techniques, emphasizing ethical conduct, and nurturing a collective voice to champion the rights of individuals with albinism.

Furthermore, our initiatives extended to fostering economic empowerment through comprehensive training on Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO). With expert guidance from seasoned facilitator Morris Kinywa, the participants received invaluable insights into the intricate process of securing government contracts, navigating regulatory requirements, and sustaining viable businesses. The sessions served not only to impart knowledge but also to inspire confidence and resilience in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

Central to our engagement was the imperative to address the pressing issue of climate change and its disproportionate impact on individuals with albinism. Through a video generated by our communications team, we elucidated the interplay between climate change and albinism in Kiswahili, offering practical strategies to mitigate its effects, particularly in the context of Mombasa's unbearable temperatures.

Our efforts transcended the confines of formal training venues. Venturing into the communities, we sought firsthand insights into the daily challenges faced by individuals with albinism. Conversations with residents revealed pervasive myths and misconceptions surrounding albinism, as well as the unique struggles encountered by those navigating professions such as transportation amidst Mombasa's scorching heat.

Moreover, our interactions unveiled systemic inequalities and discrimination within Mombasa's disability caucus, where individuals with albinism found themselves marginalized and their specific needs overlooked. Such observations underscored the urgent need for legislative reforms, equitable treatment of all individuals with disabilities, and unity among individuals with albinism to amplify their collective voice.