The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has called on people with albinism in Tanzania to walk with confidence and reject feelings of inferiority due to their condition.
He emphasized that they are equally important members of society, deserving of recognition and respect like everyone else.
Dr. Biteko made this statement on January 24 in Dar es Salaam during an event organized to distribute protective gear for skin cancer and conduct cancer screenings for people with albinism. The event was coordinated by Manara TV in collaboration with the Albino Association.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Biteko highlighted the importance of partnerships in supporting government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people with albinism.
He stressed that individuals in this community should feel empowered and assured that the government values their contributions.
He further warned against any form of threats or harm targeting albinos, affirming the government's commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being.
Dr. Biteko praised Haji Manara and his organization, Haji Foundation, for organizing and participating in the event. He noted that such initiatives foster unity and bring joy to people with albinism.
“The sixth-phase government, under the leadership of Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has allocated funds and equipment to facilitate screening services in various hospitals.
This ensures people with albinism receive timely and effective medical attention,” he said.
The Minister also pointed out that specialized cancer screening and treatment centers for people with albinism have been established in hospitals across the country.
These include Ocean Road, Muhimbili, Bugando, KCMC, and regional hospitals in Morogoro, Lindi, Mara, Iringa, Singida, and Muheza District Designated Hospital in Tanga Region.
Haji Manara, Director of the Manara Foundation, encouraged people with albinism to reject self-stigmatization and embrace their potential to succeed like anyone else.
“When I was young, I never saw myself as an albino or felt different from others. That’s why I’ve participated in all activities, including playing football and engaging in politics,” he shared.
He also thanked the government for its efforts to address challenges faced by people with disabilities, particularly those related to sun exposure and skin cancer.
Godson Mollel, President of the Albino Association, acknowledged the government’s significant role in supporting the albino community.
He noted that the government is working hard to ensure that individuals with albinism can live and work without hindrance.
During the event, Mollel congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is also the National Chairperson of CCM, for being nominated as the party’s presidential candidate for the October 2025 general elections.
According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census, Tanzania Mainland has 5,180,095 people living with disabilities, of whom 71,631 are people with albinism, representing 0.12% of the population.
