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.
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.
Practical support in health, education, protection, livelihoods and advocacy for people with albinism and their families in Cameroon.
Access to sunscreen, skin checks and referral, low-vision support and protective clothing to reduce sun damage and skin cancer risk.
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.
We respond to stigma, threats and violence, including gender-based violence, through confidential support, safety planning and referral to medical, legal and protection services.
Vocational and entrepreneurship training, mentoring and access to resources to help people with albinism build skills, income and independence.
Challenging myths and discrimination through public awareness, and advocating for policies that protect and include people with albinism.
OUR WORK IN CAMEROON
Helping prevent skin cancer by distributing high-protection sunscreen and facilitating skin screening and referral with health professionals in the Northwest Region.
Supporting young learners with low-vision tools, magnifiers and adapted learning materials, and helping teachers make classrooms accessible.
VOICES OF RESILIENCE
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.
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.
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.
Raising public awareness to challenge myths and superstitions about albinism, and advocating for policy changes and social inclusion at local and national levels.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Have questions about albinism or AWA’s work? Here are answers to the questions we are asked most often.
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.