African Court begins hearing case on attacks against persons with albinism in Tanzania

Arusha. The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR) in Arusha has commenced hearings on a pivotal case filed by human rights organizations against the United Republic of Tanzania.

The case, listed as Application Number 019 of 2018, involves allegations of severe human rights violations against persons with albinism in Tanzania.

The public hearings are being held at the Pan-African Court premises in Arusha.

Read: Tanzania outlines measures to protect people with albinism

The applicants in this case include the Centre for Human Rights, the Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, and the Legal and Human Rights Centre. They allege that Tanzania has failed to protect persons with albinism from persecution, including attacks, killings and mutilations.

Representing the applicants are a team of three lawyers: Advocates Fulgence Massawe, Michael Nyarko and Chipo Rushiwaya. The case has brought to light harrowing testimonies from three witnesses, all of whom are persons with albinism who have suffered grave violations.

One of the witnesses, a 21-year-old man from Sumbawanga District, recounted his abduction at the age of eleven.

“In 2013, two unknown people took me to the wilderness and chopped off my left arm,” he testified.

Following the attack, the organization 'Under the Same Sun' provided him with protection and support at the Village of Hope in Mwanza, allowing him to continue his education.

Another witness, a woman over 50 years old, described being attacked and severely injured, including the loss of one of her fingers.

The third witness, a former head of the Tanzania Albinism Society, reported a lack of governmental support or assistance for victims during his tenure.

The applicants argue that the Tanzanian government has failed in its duty to ensure the rights of persons with albinism, including their right to life, dignity, and non-discrimination.

They assert that the state’s inaction constitutes a breach of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Outside the courtroom, Advocate Fulgence Massawe explained the significance of the case. “We decided to file this case to address the ongoing incidents of attacks and violations against people with albinism,” he said.

“After six years of waiting, the court is finally addressing these serious issues. Our clients accuse the Tanzanian government of failing to protect and support persons with albinism, as these incidents continue to recur.”

The court’s deliberations are expected to play a crucial role in addressing the human rights challenges faced by persons with albinism in Tanzania and ensuring accountability for the violations reported.