Inclusion • Protection • Dignity

Association for the Welfare of Albinos (AWA)

Protecting, Empowering and Supporting People with Albinism in Cameroon

The Association for the Welfare of Albinos (AWA) is a woman-led organisation advancing the well-being, rights and inclusion of people with albinism. Since 2016, we have worked alongside individuals, families, communities and institutions to break down barriers to health, education, protection and sustainable opportunities, helping to create a society where people with albinism can live safely, participate fully and thrive.

Who We Are

A Woman-Led Voice for People with Albinism Since 2016

Founded in 2016 and legally recognised in 2019, AWA is a woman-led organisation dedicated to improving the lives of persons with albinism in Cameroon. We work to combat discrimination, promote inclusion, and provide the tools needed for independence and dignity.

We work directly with people with albinism and their communities, focusing on health, education, protection, and advocacy so that discrimination is challenged and equal access becomes a reality.

Our Areas of Work

Practical support in health, education, protection, livelihoods and advocacy for people with albinism and their families in Cameroon.

Health & Skin Protection

Access to sunscreen, skin checks and referral, low-vision support and protective clothing to reduce sun damage and skin cancer risk.

Inclusive Education

Learning materials, low-vision and high-contrast tools, and teacher awareness so that learners with albinism can see, learn and take part fully in class.

Protection & Safeguarding

We respond to stigma, threats and violence, including gender-based violence, through confidential support, safety planning and referral to medical, legal and protection services.

Economic Empowerment

Vocational and entrepreneurship training, mentoring and access to resources to help people with albinism build skills, income and independence.

Advocacy & Awareness

Challenging myths and discrimination through public awareness, and advocating for policies that protect and include people with albinism.

OUR WORK IN CAMEROON

Dignity, Health, and Social Inclusion

Dermatological Protection

Helping prevent skin cancer by distributing high-protection sunscreen and facilitating skin screening and referral with health professionals in the Northwest Region.

Inclusive Classrooms

Supporting young learners with low-vision tools, magnifiers and adapted learning materials, and helping teachers make classrooms accessible.

Dispelling Myths

Raising public awareness to challenge myths and superstitions about albinism, and advocating for policy changes and social inclusion at local and national levels.

VOICES OF RESILIENCE

Reclaiming Public Spaces and Futures

For many families in the Northwest region, societal stereotypes once restricted opportunities and led to isolation. Through peer support networks, AWA offers mutual support that helps people with albinism feel welcomed and included in their own communities.
“AWA did not simply bring sunscreen and vision aids; they restored our confidence. We can now step out into our communities with our heads held high, valued for who we are.”
Awumbom Brendaline, community focal person.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

What Your Support Helps Make Possible

By targeting the primary challenges faced by people with albinism, your partnerships and contributions build a continuous pathway from immediate healthcare protection to long-term economic independence.

Skin protection and health support

Supporting access to sunscreen and practical sun-protection resources, vision care and appropriate visual aids, and essential health and protective services — including skin screening, referral and psychosocial assistance — delivered through community-based action and collaboration with health professionals and partners.

Education and learning support

Promoting equal opportunities for learners with albinism by supporting inclusive learning environments, strengthening awareness among educators, and improving access to appropriate educational resources and support.

Community advocacy

Raising public awareness to challenge myths and superstitions about albinism, and advocating for policy changes and social inclusion at local and national levels.

Protection and safeguarding

Strengthening local advocacy, promoting awareness of rights, and supporting safer and more inclusive communities where people with albinism are respected, protected and able to live with dignity.

Skills and livelihood support

Creating pathways for people with albinism to develop practical skills, strengthen their confidence and pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities through training, mentorship and access to resources.

OUR FOUNDATION

Our Mission, Vision & Values

Our Mission

To ensure that people with albinism can live with dignity, access equal opportunities and reach their full potential by advancing health, education, protection, rights and inclusion, while strengthening communities and systems to remove the barriers that hold people back.

Our Vision

A society where every person with albinism can live safely, confidently and with dignity; access health, education and economic opportunities; exercise their rights; and participate fully and equally in the life of their families, communities and society.

Our Core Values

Inclusion • Dignity • Protection • Empowerment • Equality • Accountability

These values guide how we work, how we serve, and how we build a more inclusive society where people with albinism can live safely, pursue their aspirations and participate fully without discrimination or exclusion.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about albinism or AWA’s work? Here are answers to the questions we are asked most often.

What is albinism?

Albinism is a genetic condition characterised by reduced or absent melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair and eyes. It occurs in people of all backgrounds and is not contagious.

People with albinism may have sensitive skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage and may experience vision difficulties. With appropriate health care, sun protection, vision support and an inclusive environment, people with albinism can learn, work, participate and live fulfilling lives.

Albinism does not define a person’s abilities, potential or worth.

AWA works alongside people with albinism, families, schools and communities to address barriers to health, education, protection, livelihoods and inclusion. Through practical support, advocacy, community engagement and collaboration, we help create pathways to greater opportunity, participation and dignity.

AWA is a registered non-profit association in Cameroon (Ref: 34/E1111/VOL/8/ALPAS). Every donation receives an official AWA receipt. Tax treatment depends on the laws of your country and your situation; please ask your tax adviser. If you need a receipt or documentation for your records, contact us at contact@awaforcharity.org.

Your time, skills and experience can contribute to meaningful change. AWA welcomes individuals who are passionate about inclusion and the well-being of people with albinism to contribute through volunteering, skills-sharing, community engagement and other areas of support. Whether you can offer your time regularly or support a specific initiative, we welcome people who want to contribute with purpose.