Annamaria David from the village of Ng'ome in the Bahi District of Tanzania is 10 years old. For as long as she can remember, she has faced difficulties due to her albinism.
- I used to ask my mother why I was born like this, says Annamaria.
In 2019, Annamaria was enrolled in Buigiri Primary School, an inclusive school for children with disabilities, and her view of herself began to change. Previously, Annamaria thought she was the only person with fair skin.
- I thought I was alone, but now I have met several people who have the same color as me. Thanks to the Tanzania League of the Blind (TLB) who helped me to school.
Today, Annamaria is in second grade and dreams of one day becoming a doctor.
What is albinism?
Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin. The lack of melanin in the skin, hair and eyes increases vulnerability to the sun's dangerous rays and increases the risk of skin cancer. It is also common for the lack of melanin in the eyes to lead to visual impairment in people with albinism.
