Tragedy of albinos in Tanzania

Spell-casting is fairly common in Tanzania, which has the highest percentage of albino population in the world. There are many who cast spells using an albino's limb or skin in the hopes of rising to a prominent position or reaping a handsome profit.

Tanzania has the highest percentage of albino population in the world. In this country, being an albino means that you will never be able to lead a normal life. Their limbs are amputated and used in spells, they often avoid schooling due to abduction fears, and they cannot work outdoors to avoid skin cancer resulting from exposure to the scorching sun. Thankfully, Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been working hard to protect albinos in recent years. There is also a Turkish woman, Yeşim Meço, who has her hands on the problem, most probably making her the only white woman in the world dedicating herself to the cause of albinos.

"I was sleeping when five people entered my room in the dead of night. Two of them pinned me down, while the other three stood guard at the door to keep anyone from approaching me. I don't recall what happened next. When I woke up, I found my sister crying beside me. I felt wetness on my right side and, trying to reach for the lamp, I realized my right arm was missing. That's when I began to scream in agony and fear," 25-year-old Kulva said as she recounted her harrowing experience.

Kulva was only 13 years old when this tragic incident happened.

Kulva is not alone. In Tanzania, there are hundreds, possibly thousands, who have suffered similar fates, having a hand, arm, or leg amputated. Kulva is fortunate to have survived. This atrocity is being done in order to provide material for casting spells. Yes, you heard correctly; there are many who cast spells...