DR Congo: 'Proud to be albino'

Because of their skin color, albinos are often ostracized by society or even persecuted. But albinism is a medical condition - a skin disorder characterized by a complete or partial absence of pigment.

The first festival of its kind, "Fierement Ndundu" ("Proud to be Albino") was a small revolution. The festival was held for three days in the Congolese capital Kinshasa, three days during which albinos came together to seek greater public acceptance. At the opening there were both albinos and non-albinos in the audience.

Organizer Yannick Mambo wants to clear up misconceptions about albinism. However, in East Africa the belief that albinos possess magic powers is still widespread. In neighboring Tanzania they are persecuted and even killed - albino body parts are sold on the black market for hundreds of euros. "The world is a mosaic," Mambo says. "Our skin colors are like small parts of it."

A workshop was held focusing on female traders or women with their own income. The main message was that they should not regard albinism as a negative factor in their lives but rather as a source of strength.

Businesswoman Chantal Mulani is grateful for the presentation on the topic of marketing. She has learned that she can use her condition to draw attention to her business. "I never saw it like that before. Instead of being ashamed of my albinism, I should see it as an advantage," she said.

For fear of persecution, the parents of albino children often hide their offspring at home. Luxus Legal (right) thinks that is wrong. The Congolese rapper was on stage for the festival opening. He uses his popularity to appeal to parents' consciences. "They must give their children the feeling they are loved. Parents must not stigmatize their own children," he said.

Samy Mulumba wants fellow albinos in the audience to take courage from his story. He has made a successful career and is now state prosecutor at the court in Kinshasa. At the festival he informed people about their rights. "The rights of people with albinism must be respected," he said..