Breaking Barriers: Meet the Inspiring Women with Albinism Advocating for Disability Rights in Kenya.
Women from marginalised communities, including those with disabilities, women of colour, and indigenous women, often face discrimination, violence, and exclusion, making it difficult for them to participate in community building. Despite these challenges, they continue to make valuable contributions by bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. By celebrating and empowering these women, we can promote equality and inspire more women to participate in community building for positive change.
Black Albinism, in collaboration with the US Embassy in Nairobi, is currently carrying out a project in three Kenyan counties: Machakos, Kitui, and Kajiado. The project aims to evaluate the current level of knowledge about climate change and its effects on people with albinism in these counties. As the counties are located in semi-arid and arid regions of the country, they may be at a higher risk of suffering from the impacts of climate change.
On this International Women's Day, Black Albinism joins in celebrating the remarkable achievements of women. In particular, we want to honour the women who are taking the lead in climate action in their respective communities. These women are making a significant impact by promoting sustainability and raising awareness of environmental issues. We want to celebrate the women leading this campaign in their respective counties.
Meet Jeriter Mutinda,
jeriter Mutnda Mutisya is a passionate advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly those with albinism. Despite facing numerous challenges in her education and personal life due to her albinism, she has become a successful entrepreneur and community leader. Jeriter is the chairlady of the Machakos Albinism County Network and a member of the Machakos Disability Board, where she works to empower and support persons with disabilities. She is also an active member of the Machakos Civil Society Network, representing the disability community. Her dedication and hard work have earned her the respect and admiration of her community, and she serves as an inspiration to others.
Meet Faith Joseph,
Faith Ngene Joseph, from Kitui Rural in Kitui County, is a determined woman with albinism. Despite being the only child with albinism in a family of four, she experienced love and care like any other child. After pursuing a diploma in human nutrition and dietetics, she now works as a nutritionist in Kitui County Hospital. She is the county representative for persons with albinism and leader for Kitui Star Shine Group for Persons with Disabilities. Her great passion is bringing healing to people with disabilities who have been through stressful experiences and helping them </span><span>become men and women of substance in the country.
Meet Zipporah Ntininie,
<span>Zipporah Ntininie is a committed individual who has made a significant impact in the disability space in Kajiado County. As the Secretary of the Kajiado County Albinism Association and a Board Member of the Kajiado County Disability Fund Board, she has become an essential player in this field. With her diploma in Human Resource Management, Zipporah has the knowledge and expertise to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.</span>
These remarkable women have defied societal stereotypes and limitations to become leaders and advocates for people with albinism and disabilities in their communities. They have shown that with determination, hard work, and support, anything is possible. Their commitment to creating a better world for people with disabilities is truly inspiring, and their contributions are a testament to the fact that disability is not inability. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us draw inspiration from the stories of Jeriter, Faith, and Zipporah, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential.