Across Africa, persons with albinism continue to face discrimination, violence, and exclusion. Yet, too often, the spaces where decisions are made at the African Union and the United Nations feel distant, complex, and inaccessible. What happens when those systems are demystified, and advocates are equipped to use them confidently? This was the driving question behind the Africa Albinism Network’s Virtual Learning Forum (VLF), a continent-wide capacity-building initiative delivered in English, French, and Portuguese, ensuring no voice was left behind because of language.
One Forum, Three Languages, Shared Purpose
Held virtually between August 2025 and January 2026, the VLF brought together over 70 leaders of organisations of persons with albinism, human rights defenders, and disability advocates from across Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone Africa. While the sessions were delivered in different languages, the message was the same: persons with albinism have the right and the tools to claim space within regional and international human rights systems.
Participants explored how the UN treaty bodies, the Universal Periodic Review, Special Procedures, and African Union human rights mechanisms can be used not just as abstract institutions, but as practical advocacy tools to drive change at national level.
From Complexity to Clarity
Through interactive presentations, real-life case studies, and open discussions, the forum broke down complex reporting and communication procedures into clear, actionable steps. Participants learned how to:
- Prepare strong alternative and shadow reports
- Engage constructively with state reporting cycles
- Use human rights recommendations to influence national policy and practice
- Collaborate across borders for stronger, collective advocacy
For many participants, this was the first time global and regional human rights mechanisms felt approachable, relevant, and usable.
Building Power Through Connection
Beyond technical knowledge, the VLF created something equally powerful: connection. Advocates from different regions shared challenges, strategies, and successes realising that while contexts may differ, the struggle for dignity, protection, and inclusion is shared.
The multilingual format strengthened solidarity across Africa’s linguistic divides, reinforcing the idea that the movement for the rights of persons with albinism is strongest when it is united.
Looking Ahead
The Virtual Learning Forum marked a critical step in strengthening albinism-focused advocacy across Africa. It also highlighted the need for continued learning, follow-up technical support, and deeper engagement with upcoming AU and UN reporting opportunities.
As one participant reflected, “This training didn’t just teach us about mechanisms, it showed us how to use them.”
At the Africa Albinism Network, that is exactly the point. Empowered advocates. Informed action. And a growing movement ensuring that the rights of persons with albinism are not just recognized but realised.
