Parents whose children are living with albinism have been urged to give their children the same attention as their ‘normal’ children.
Jane Wangechi, who is living with albinism, said that it was important for the children to realize that they were not different from the others.
“Most parents pamper a child who has a special need, hence they limit the child as to what he can achieve in future, leading to overdependence on the parents,” she noted.
Wangechi, who was addressing parents at Shabab grounds on Tuesday during celebrations to mark the World Albinism Day, added that majority of the parents did not even encourage such children to pursue education.
“They are left pampered at home while others are competing with the world. It is clear that one can play a very vital role in the society if exposed well despite their albinism. The proof that we currently have a Member of Parliament who is an albino is enough to make other parents ensure that they achieve all their potential,” she added.
Josephine Wangari, a fashion designer who is also an albino, challenged parents to allow the young children to pursue their dreams.
“My greatest challenge as an albino was that my parents never believed I could achieve anything and hence stopped me from attempting anything. I had to look for other means of learning fashion design including appealing to a friend who linked me up with a popular designer,” she said.