problem of children with albinism in Tanzania. Particularly, the Committee would
like to encourage CSOs which are working on children rights issues to collaborate
with the Government in finding a long term and functional solution to plight of the
children in the Centres.
Finally the Committee would like to recommend the following key points primarily
to the Government of Tanzania and other stakeholders with a view to producing
effective mechanisms to protect the rights of children with albinism in Tanzania:
I.
I.1.
I.2.
I.3.
Immediate measures
A plan and strategy has to be in place for the Government to immediately
stop institutionalization of children with albinism and instead assist them in
reconnecting and reuniting the children in the centres with their parents, or
close relatives;, an integration plan back to the community should also be in
place;
From the conversation it had with authorities, the Committee realizes most
of the officials either don’t properly understand the depth of the challenges
or they live in denial. Therefore, it is the Committee’s strongest view that the
Government should sensitize its enforcement officials regarding the plight of
the children with albinism.
With a view of preventing further complicated health problems,
I.4.
including skin cancer, the Government should come up with a short
term plan to enhance the health facilities such as by providing of
affordable sunscreen and other sun protective gear to children with
albinism,
II.
Mid-term measures
II.1.
II.2.
The Committee encourages the Government to investigate the
allegations against some members of the Police and Government
Officials who are thought to be involved in the sale of body parts of
children with albinism.
The Committee encourages the State Party to take legislative and
administrative measures, including reviewing legislative instruments and
policies, and to adopt a comprehensive strategy to eliminate the attacks,
killings and discrimination against children with albinism. Particularly, the
Witchcraft Act should be amended in order to reflect the current situation on
issues of superstitious beliefs;
The Committee also recommends that the Government to develop and
maintain a database of children with albinism, this includes registering
17