Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
The Truth as it ought to be Told: Human body parts don’t Create Wealth
Kazungu Kassim, head of a Burundi albino association, listens to proceedings inside a courtroom in Ruyigi, eastern BurundiSnapshots of the full article Click on the link below the snapshots to read the full article
...A 35-year-old man in Lake Tanganyika was accused of trying to sell his 24-year-old wife to Congolese businessmen for $2,000 (Sh150,000) while in Mwanga District a mother was alleged to have sold her albino baby girl to a group of men who slaughtered her and drunk her blood...
...They are cutting us up like chickens. Our biggest fear now is the fear of living. If you leave work at night as an albino you are unsure of reaching home safely. When you sleep you are unsure of waking up in one piece. In the streets you hear people plotting how they can get you,” lamented Zihada Msembo, Tanzanian Albino Society secretary general...
...Fishermen for instance, have this macabre belief that if they weave strands of red albino hair into their nets, fish will be attracted by the glimmer. Although poverty and ignorance are the major causes of these barbaric acts, Nigerian films are being accused of touting the efficacy of witchcraft...
...On further questioning the man confessed that a businessman was going to pay for the head by its weight...
...However, albinos in Burundi, affected by the killing wave in Tanzania, got a moral boost when eight men charged with killing albinos in the town of Ruyigi were sentenced to life imprisonment.
“I think it will reduce the amount of attacks on albinos in our country,” Mr Kazungu Kassim, spokesman for Burundi albinos, told journalists...
Read The Full Story Here
Court hears how Bukombe albinos `were murdered`
Story courtesy of The Guardian Newspaper Tanzania. It appeared in yesterday's (17th Sept 2009) edition of the paper.
The High Court in Shinyanga Region’s Bukombe District, sitting specifically to preside over cases in which three people are charged with albino killings, was informed yesterday that the accused were behind the planning and execution of a spate of such murders.
Winding up the public prosecution’s submission, State Attorney Prudence Rweyongeza told the court that Masumbuko Madata of Itunga Village and Emmanuel Masangwa and Charles Kalamuji alias Charles Masangwa, both of Bunyihuna Village in Bukombe District, were behind the killings of albinos reported around the Lake Victoria zone.
Rweyongeza said investigations leading to court action after filing the murder case, no. 24 of 2009, revealed that the accused killed Matatizo Dunia (13) on the night of December 1 last year as the youngster slept in a house at Bunyihuna village, and disappeared with his body parts for witchcraft purposes.
He told the court, presided over by Judge Gabriel Rweyongeza, that the prosecution brought two types of evidence - circumstantial and through affidavits.
“In the right of the seriousness of the crime committed, which has tarnished the country’s image, the prosecution presented in court evidence from 15 different people who are credible and reliable and who have proved beyond reasonable doubt the involvement of the accused in the crime. I pray that the court convict the accused accordingly,” he pleaded.
Commenting on the affidavit presented, Rweyongeza said the evidence basically proved the brutal killing of Standard Four schoolboy Matatizo Dunia of Bunyihuna Village in Iponya Ward, Bukombe District.
He added that the accused were positively identified as having committed the crime and actually confessed to have done so.
The prosecution further submitted that all the accused had confessed through affidavits to have collaborated in planning and executing the scheme leading to the killing of the boy. They were later arrested after being found in possession of the boy’s legs.
Rweyongeza asked the court to ignore “inconsequential issues of contention” among witnesses such as the number of police officers and the vehicles used during the arrest of the suspects at Itunga village.
“These are trivial and cannot alter the truth about the people behind the crime,” he said, adding: “Witnesses are human beings and cannot remember everything.”
He submitted that one prosecution witness, first accused Madata’s wife Yunis Peter, willingly and without being swayed by prejudice or vengeance against the accused, explained before Judge Rwakibalila and the court assessors how her husband was busy with secret plans with third accused Kalamuji.
He quoted the woman as having explained how her husband made “endless trips” on November 30 last year “to accomplish his evil mission of killing the innocent boy and hide the body parts in the bush”. The case was adjourned until today, when the judge will hear presentations by court assessors before giving the date for ruling.
The High Court in Shinyanga Region’s Bukombe District, sitting specifically to preside over cases in which three people are charged with albino killings, was informed yesterday that the accused were behind the planning and execution of a spate of such murders.
Winding up the public prosecution’s submission, State Attorney Prudence Rweyongeza told the court that Masumbuko Madata of Itunga Village and Emmanuel Masangwa and Charles Kalamuji alias Charles Masangwa, both of Bunyihuna Village in Bukombe District, were behind the killings of albinos reported around the Lake Victoria zone.
Rweyongeza said investigations leading to court action after filing the murder case, no. 24 of 2009, revealed that the accused killed Matatizo Dunia (13) on the night of December 1 last year as the youngster slept in a house at Bunyihuna village, and disappeared with his body parts for witchcraft purposes.
He told the court, presided over by Judge Gabriel Rweyongeza, that the prosecution brought two types of evidence - circumstantial and through affidavits.
“In the right of the seriousness of the crime committed, which has tarnished the country’s image, the prosecution presented in court evidence from 15 different people who are credible and reliable and who have proved beyond reasonable doubt the involvement of the accused in the crime. I pray that the court convict the accused accordingly,” he pleaded.
Commenting on the affidavit presented, Rweyongeza said the evidence basically proved the brutal killing of Standard Four schoolboy Matatizo Dunia of Bunyihuna Village in Iponya Ward, Bukombe District.
He added that the accused were positively identified as having committed the crime and actually confessed to have done so.
The prosecution further submitted that all the accused had confessed through affidavits to have collaborated in planning and executing the scheme leading to the killing of the boy. They were later arrested after being found in possession of the boy’s legs.
Rweyongeza asked the court to ignore “inconsequential issues of contention” among witnesses such as the number of police officers and the vehicles used during the arrest of the suspects at Itunga village.
“These are trivial and cannot alter the truth about the people behind the crime,” he said, adding: “Witnesses are human beings and cannot remember everything.”
He submitted that one prosecution witness, first accused Madata’s wife Yunis Peter, willingly and without being swayed by prejudice or vengeance against the accused, explained before Judge Rwakibalila and the court assessors how her husband was busy with secret plans with third accused Kalamuji.
He quoted the woman as having explained how her husband made “endless trips” on November 30 last year “to accomplish his evil mission of killing the innocent boy and hide the body parts in the bush”. The case was adjourned until today, when the judge will hear presentations by court assessors before giving the date for ruling.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Peter Ash drums up support for albino protection
Story Courtesy of The Guardian Newspaper, Tanzania
President and founder of a Canadian non-profit organization, Under the Same Sun, Peter Ash, jetted in Dar es Salaam over the weekend calling for justice to the families who lost their loved ones due to genetic disorder.
Ash has albinism, a genetic condition which results in significantly reduced vision, but such condition has of late ignited a spate of killings by get-rich-quick fellows always associated with witchcraft.
He told journalists at the Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) that his heart drives him to do whatever he can to provide resources to assist those most disadvantaged by disability, discrimination and poverty.
“Our mission remains unchanged. It is to provide resources which allow these groups to increase their quality of life and gain increased independence,” said Ash.
He said for Tanzania's 170,000 albinos, there was an increasing sense of fear and abandonment. With the government unable or unwilling to protect them from the machetes of the witchdoctors' henchmen, there is no place to hide and little reason to hope.
As the slaughter of albinos continues, promises from Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda that the killers would be brought to justice swiftly have been fulfilled. Now the Kahama and Shinyanga High Courts have been holding trials for four of the suspected killers of victims with albinism.
This is the third time for the founder of the Canadian NGO is visiting Tanzania. During his second visit, Ash and his delegation met with leaders in the albinism community as well as religious leaders and government officials, including Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda and Vice-President Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein. Unfortunately, four months later as the killings continue unabated, Ash seriously questions if there is any political will for the government to provide meaningful protection for its citizens with albinism.
The most recent victim was 4-year-old Muanda Sita of Madilana village in the Bariadi District, Shinyanga Region. The killers, wielding machetes, overtook the little boy and hacked off his legs one by one as he screamed in agony. His slaughter brings the number of killings of Tanzanians with albinism during the past month to four.
In addition, other African countries are now reporting similar occurrences, including neighboring Burundi where at least 12 people with albinism have been slaughtered in the last year. However, Burundi does not appear to be afflicted with the same kind of judicial apathy.
While the trials in Tanzania are dragging, nine people in Burundi have recently been convicted for the murders. All nine killers are serving time in jail, with one of them serving a life sentence.
Peter Ash with an albino girl
President and founder of a Canadian non-profit organization, Under the Same Sun, Peter Ash, jetted in Dar es Salaam over the weekend calling for justice to the families who lost their loved ones due to genetic disorder.
Ash has albinism, a genetic condition which results in significantly reduced vision, but such condition has of late ignited a spate of killings by get-rich-quick fellows always associated with witchcraft.
He told journalists at the Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) that his heart drives him to do whatever he can to provide resources to assist those most disadvantaged by disability, discrimination and poverty.
“Our mission remains unchanged. It is to provide resources which allow these groups to increase their quality of life and gain increased independence,” said Ash.
He said for Tanzania's 170,000 albinos, there was an increasing sense of fear and abandonment. With the government unable or unwilling to protect them from the machetes of the witchdoctors' henchmen, there is no place to hide and little reason to hope.
As the slaughter of albinos continues, promises from Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda that the killers would be brought to justice swiftly have been fulfilled. Now the Kahama and Shinyanga High Courts have been holding trials for four of the suspected killers of victims with albinism.
This is the third time for the founder of the Canadian NGO is visiting Tanzania. During his second visit, Ash and his delegation met with leaders in the albinism community as well as religious leaders and government officials, including Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda and Vice-President Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein. Unfortunately, four months later as the killings continue unabated, Ash seriously questions if there is any political will for the government to provide meaningful protection for its citizens with albinism.
The most recent victim was 4-year-old Muanda Sita of Madilana village in the Bariadi District, Shinyanga Region. The killers, wielding machetes, overtook the little boy and hacked off his legs one by one as he screamed in agony. His slaughter brings the number of killings of Tanzanians with albinism during the past month to four.
In addition, other African countries are now reporting similar occurrences, including neighboring Burundi where at least 12 people with albinism have been slaughtered in the last year. However, Burundi does not appear to be afflicted with the same kind of judicial apathy.
While the trials in Tanzania are dragging, nine people in Burundi have recently been convicted for the murders. All nine killers are serving time in jail, with one of them serving a life sentence.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
This War will one day be won, but first…
I was reading the book of Nehemiah in the Bible today when my eyes lighted on a verse that moved me. The sheer resolve and determination that oozes from the verse got me thinking and wishing, wishing, wishing …
The verse, Nehemiah 4:14, says: “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”
This came at a time that Nehemiah was rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and some people were taunting and mocking the builders. There were instances when the security of the builders was threatened. So they had to work with their weapons (swords, spears, shields) at hand.
They were doing a good thing and they refused to be intimidated or even join the bandwagon of the complacent fellows who were satisfied with the way things were. They dared to be different and that drew immense opposition.
This reminds me what Albert Einstein said: Great spirits have always encountered violent oppositions from mediocre minds.
I guess this has a great lesson for us here in Tanzania as we fight against the violence levelled against albinos; and as we champion for the prosecution of albino murderers.
We cannot dare allow complacency and intimidation to fill our hearts as we fight this good fight. Though some of us have been cowed into believing that nothing good will come out of this war, there are positive indications that this war is already half won. We just have to keep at it without giving up hope. You know, from those to whom much has been given, much will be required.
If there is no other motivation to fight this good fight, let this one suffice: There is no substitute to human life. Guard it with all you can and however you can!
The verse, Nehemiah 4:14, says: “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”
This came at a time that Nehemiah was rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and some people were taunting and mocking the builders. There were instances when the security of the builders was threatened. So they had to work with their weapons (swords, spears, shields) at hand.
They were doing a good thing and they refused to be intimidated or even join the bandwagon of the complacent fellows who were satisfied with the way things were. They dared to be different and that drew immense opposition.
This reminds me what Albert Einstein said: Great spirits have always encountered violent oppositions from mediocre minds.
I guess this has a great lesson for us here in Tanzania as we fight against the violence levelled against albinos; and as we champion for the prosecution of albino murderers.
We cannot dare allow complacency and intimidation to fill our hearts as we fight this good fight. Though some of us have been cowed into believing that nothing good will come out of this war, there are positive indications that this war is already half won. We just have to keep at it without giving up hope. You know, from those to whom much has been given, much will be required.
If there is no other motivation to fight this good fight, let this one suffice: There is no substitute to human life. Guard it with all you can and however you can!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Albino Murder Trials Suspended
Tanzania has suspended the trials of suspects accused of killing albinos so their body parts can be used in good-luck charms, ostensibly because of a lack of funds.....Read The Rest Here
...The killings have sullied Tanzania's reputation for relative calm in a volatile region, and drawn condemnation from the United Nations and European Union.....Read The Rest Here
Read this Also
...The killings have sullied Tanzania's reputation for relative calm in a volatile region, and drawn condemnation from the United Nations and European Union.....Read The Rest Here
Pictures of a HORRIBLY mutilated Albino Girl. Be warned: they are graphic!Is this what we want to continue happening?
Monday, August 10, 2009
Is there any POLITICAL WILL to end the Killings...
...As Albino butchery increases and Tanzanian courts abandon prosecutions?
As the slaughter of albinos continues, promises from Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda that the killers would be brought to justice swiftly have not yet been fulfilled. Now the Kahama and Shinyanga High Courts which have been holding trials for 4 of the suspected killers of victims with albinism say they have run out of funds. THESE TRIALS HAVE NOW BEEN SUSPENDED UNTILFURTHER NOTICE. For Tanzania’s 170,000 albinos, there is an increasing sense of fear and abandonment. With their government unable or unwilling to protect them from the machetes ofthe witchdoctors’ henchmen, there is no place to hide and little reason to hope.
When Peter Ash, Founder of the Canadian NGO “UNDER THE SAME SUN” returned from his second fact-finding mission to Tanzania this past April, he was cautiously optimistic. During the visit, Ash and his delegation met with leaders in the albinism community as well as religious leaders and government officials, including the Prime Minister and Vice-President, Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein. Unfortunately, four months later as the genocide continues unabated, Ash seriously questions if there is any political will within this East African government to provide meaningful protection for its citizens with albinism.
The most recent victim was 4 year old Muanda Sita of Madilana village in the Bariadi District,Shinyanga region. Murderers, violently wielding machetes, overtook the little boy and hacked off his legs one by one as he screamed in agony. His slaughter brings the number of murders of Tanzanians with albinism during the past month to 4. In addition, other African countries are now reporting similar occurrences, including neighboring Burundi where at least 12 people with albinism have been slaughtered in the last year. However, the Republic of Burundi does not appear to be afflicted with the same kind of judicial apathy. While the trials in Tanzania have completely stalled, 9 people in Burundi have recently been convicted for the murders. All 9 killers are serving time in jail, with one of them serving a life sentence.
According to Ash, the crisis in Tanzania has only intensified. “If you have albinism in Tanzania”,he says, “you live in a constant state of fear. Since 2007, police reports confirm that at least 53 innocent children and adults have been slaughtered like animals so that their body parts can be traded and sold as mere commodities by witchdoctors to their customers. The darkness of Witchcraft is rampant with documented accounts of tiny babies, some as young as 6 months ofage, being slaughtered alive in front of their families, dismembered one frail limb at a time.”
“In another case earlier this year, he adds, “the body of a two day old baby with albinism in Shinyanga was exhumed from a grave dug the day after its birth. This tiny infant was found without arms or legs. There are repeated accounts of throats slit, blood drained and sometimes drunk on the spot by the killers. Victims have no one to trust and nowhere to turn because evidence shows that in many cases, relatives or close friends of the victims are directly involved in the murders. Tragically, law enforcement officials have also been implicated. This spreading evil has reached epidemic proportions.”
While visiting Tanzania on February 28, 2009, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon himself condemned the killings, remarking that “I have received complaints about this gross violation of human rights. It is a very serious issue…”. In the small number of trials that were until recently occurring, witnesses say that prosecutors have often botched the investigations. Tanzania’s 170,000 people with albinism now feel totally abandoned by their justice system with nowhere to turn for rescue from this genocide.
The reassuring press releases of politicians did nothing to save beautiful 14 year old Eunice Bahati of Sengerema district (Mwanza Region) on February 17 this year when killers hacked offeach of her limbs as her family watched. The horrific and graphic photos below of Eunice’s body provide evidence of this crime against humanity which is spreading across Tanzania:
Pictures of a horribly mutilated Albino Girl
Increasing International Pressure
World media has taken serious note of this continuing killing spree. The desperate plight ofTanzania’s albino community and the work of Under The Same Sun have recently been featured in international media coverage such as The New York Times, BBC, The National Post,The Guardian, Voice of America, NBC News and countless other radio, TV and newspapers.And with the Tanzanian judicial system’s recent declaration that they cannot continue theprosecutions of suspected murderers due to a lack of money, Ash believes that the international community must pressure the Tanzanian Government to reconsider this decision. “The courts must act swiftly to prosecute the perpetrators of these grizzly crimes” says Ash, “and then thegovernment must commit sufficient resources to protect Tanzania’s vulnerable albino community”.
“We must all raise our voices and join with our fellow human beings with albinism in Tanzania!” Ash implores. “We must shout with a loud and passionate cry for justice and a plea for safety.All that is needed for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing. Please do not be counted among those who failed to bring about life saving change.”
An international petition can be signed and more information obtained by visiting:www.underthesamesun.com.
For interview requests, please email: media(at)underthesamesun(dot)com or telephone +1-604-587-6502.
As the slaughter of albinos continues, promises from Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda that the killers would be brought to justice swiftly have not yet been fulfilled. Now the Kahama and Shinyanga High Courts which have been holding trials for 4 of the suspected killers of victims with albinism say they have run out of funds. THESE TRIALS HAVE NOW BEEN SUSPENDED UNTILFURTHER NOTICE. For Tanzania’s 170,000 albinos, there is an increasing sense of fear and abandonment. With their government unable or unwilling to protect them from the machetes ofthe witchdoctors’ henchmen, there is no place to hide and little reason to hope.
When Peter Ash, Founder of the Canadian NGO “UNDER THE SAME SUN” returned from his second fact-finding mission to Tanzania this past April, he was cautiously optimistic. During the visit, Ash and his delegation met with leaders in the albinism community as well as religious leaders and government officials, including the Prime Minister and Vice-President, Dr. Ali Mohamed Shein. Unfortunately, four months later as the genocide continues unabated, Ash seriously questions if there is any political will within this East African government to provide meaningful protection for its citizens with albinism.
The most recent victim was 4 year old Muanda Sita of Madilana village in the Bariadi District,Shinyanga region. Murderers, violently wielding machetes, overtook the little boy and hacked off his legs one by one as he screamed in agony. His slaughter brings the number of murders of Tanzanians with albinism during the past month to 4. In addition, other African countries are now reporting similar occurrences, including neighboring Burundi where at least 12 people with albinism have been slaughtered in the last year. However, the Republic of Burundi does not appear to be afflicted with the same kind of judicial apathy. While the trials in Tanzania have completely stalled, 9 people in Burundi have recently been convicted for the murders. All 9 killers are serving time in jail, with one of them serving a life sentence.
According to Ash, the crisis in Tanzania has only intensified. “If you have albinism in Tanzania”,he says, “you live in a constant state of fear. Since 2007, police reports confirm that at least 53 innocent children and adults have been slaughtered like animals so that their body parts can be traded and sold as mere commodities by witchdoctors to their customers. The darkness of Witchcraft is rampant with documented accounts of tiny babies, some as young as 6 months ofage, being slaughtered alive in front of their families, dismembered one frail limb at a time.”
“In another case earlier this year, he adds, “the body of a two day old baby with albinism in Shinyanga was exhumed from a grave dug the day after its birth. This tiny infant was found without arms or legs. There are repeated accounts of throats slit, blood drained and sometimes drunk on the spot by the killers. Victims have no one to trust and nowhere to turn because evidence shows that in many cases, relatives or close friends of the victims are directly involved in the murders. Tragically, law enforcement officials have also been implicated. This spreading evil has reached epidemic proportions.”
While visiting Tanzania on February 28, 2009, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon himself condemned the killings, remarking that “I have received complaints about this gross violation of human rights. It is a very serious issue…”. In the small number of trials that were until recently occurring, witnesses say that prosecutors have often botched the investigations. Tanzania’s 170,000 people with albinism now feel totally abandoned by their justice system with nowhere to turn for rescue from this genocide.
The reassuring press releases of politicians did nothing to save beautiful 14 year old Eunice Bahati of Sengerema district (Mwanza Region) on February 17 this year when killers hacked offeach of her limbs as her family watched. The horrific and graphic photos below of Eunice’s body provide evidence of this crime against humanity which is spreading across Tanzania:
WARNING: THE PICTURES ARE GRAPHIC
Pictures of a horribly mutilated Albino Girl
Increasing International Pressure
World media has taken serious note of this continuing killing spree. The desperate plight ofTanzania’s albino community and the work of Under The Same Sun have recently been featured in international media coverage such as The New York Times, BBC, The National Post,The Guardian, Voice of America, NBC News and countless other radio, TV and newspapers.And with the Tanzanian judicial system’s recent declaration that they cannot continue theprosecutions of suspected murderers due to a lack of money, Ash believes that the international community must pressure the Tanzanian Government to reconsider this decision. “The courts must act swiftly to prosecute the perpetrators of these grizzly crimes” says Ash, “and then thegovernment must commit sufficient resources to protect Tanzania’s vulnerable albino community”.
“We must all raise our voices and join with our fellow human beings with albinism in Tanzania!” Ash implores. “We must shout with a loud and passionate cry for justice and a plea for safety.All that is needed for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing. Please do not be counted among those who failed to bring about life saving change.”
An international petition can be signed and more information obtained by visiting:www.underthesamesun.com.
For interview requests, please email: media(at)underthesamesun(dot)com or telephone +1-604-587-6502.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Tanzania Albino Center in Moshi: Impacting the Lives of Albinos
The Hands of Africa Foundation in Netherlands in collaboration with Tanzania Albinos Centre in Moshi, have realized the situation of the albino society in Tanzania. Our first task is to provide education to the albinos and create awareness to the society to accept albinos as normal beings with all human rights including social protection including the following:
*To provide their needs like sun-glasses and sun-blocks (skin cream) to albinos, to keep their eyes and skin safe.
*To provide them with life.....Read The Rest Here
The Mission and Vision statements of the Tanzania Albino centre:
MISSION
Our aim is to improve the life of albino’s in Tanzania by support their school and vocation colleges education, medical help, awareness etc. So they can live safe, accepted in the society and able to find jobs and good education. As well as imparting life skills.
VISION
Together with the Dutch Afrikaanse Albino’s Organization we will become the recognized leader in planning, advocating and funding quality services to improve the lives of the albino in Tanzania.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
More Govt bodies join in the fight against Albino killings
The Tanzania Government Chemist Laboratory Agency (GCLA) has started to examine blood samples of albinos killed in Shinyanga region this year...Read The Rest Here
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Love conquers all: An Albino's moving Love Story...
... and subsequent happy family!
James, Pamela and their daughter, Avril
...Pamela could not get her mind off the young man, an aspiring musician with a deep, musical voice and sense of humour.
And she also liked his “shiny blonde hair”, which she says made him very attractive.
James’s hair colour is as a result of albinism, an inherited genetic condition characterised by little or no pigment (melanin) in the skin, eyes and hair...Read to know how Pamela and James, an albino, met, courted and... now have a loving family. Life is not all doom and gloom for albinos!
James, Pamela and their daughter, Avril...Pamela could not get her mind off the young man, an aspiring musician with a deep, musical voice and sense of humour.
And she also liked his “shiny blonde hair”, which she says made him very attractive.
James’s hair colour is as a result of albinism, an inherited genetic condition characterised by little or no pigment (melanin) in the skin, eyes and hair...Read to know how Pamela and James, an albino, met, courted and... now have a loving family. Life is not all doom and gloom for albinos!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Accused Albino Murderer denies close relation with Murdered Albino
...It is alleged that the deceased was living with Gamaya before he was brutally killed between November 1 and December 4, last year and, according to the prosecution, on the day when the crime was committed the accused had met at the house to plan the shocking murder...Check out the Rest Here
Other Albino Stories in the Media
Other Albino Stories in the Media
Sunday, June 14, 2009
A Tiny Sanctuary for Tanzania's Albinos
One of the things that makes working for the Red Cross in the field such a privilege is that you occasionally see places you never would in a lifetime of “travel”, even as a journalist. And meet true humanitarians – local volunteers – whose main objective in life is to do something to help their communities...Check out the Rest Here
Rozarii Lynch: Freelance Photographer with a Difference
This is Rozarii LynchRozarii, a freelance photographer, has initiated a project whose aim is to raise international awareness for the plight of the albino people, to portray positive images of the individual albino people and to affect positive change for their situation.
Read to know More about Rozarii's Project
State Drops witness in Albino Murder Trial
The trial involving the murder of a 54 year-old albino took a new twist yesterday when the prosecution decided to drop from its list of witnesses the wife of one of the accused, after the latter changed her mind...Read the Rest Here
And also......Check out the Same Story in this other Paper
And also......Check out the Same Story in this other Paper
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Trader accused of asking for albino parts
...The shocking testimony emerged after a defence counsel, Mr Feran Kweka, asked the witness why the alleged "buyer" of a head and legs cut off from Lyaku Willy was not among the accused despite being named...Read the Rest Here.
Witness recounts how ‘killers’ went into hiding.
Witness recounts how ‘killers’ went into hiding.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Man confesses to having Killed an Albino
...[Currently, albino murder cases are being heard simultaneously in Shinyanga and Kahama districts]...
A man on trial for the murder of a mentally ill albino last year confessed to having committed the heinous crime before villagers, the High Court heard yesterday...Read the Rest Here.
A man on trial for the murder of a mentally ill albino last year confessed to having committed the heinous crime before villagers, the High Court heard yesterday...Read the Rest Here.
One Man's Opinion: "That's Why I Say Africans Are Cursed"
"My father was an albino and he died of cancer when he was nearing 50. Throughout my childhood I grew up an angry boy. I was angry with life. I have asked God several times why he had to make my father the way he was, not that I didn’t love him but I felt pity for him. I remember vividly how children and people would make fun of my father. He has been called names such as “murungu”(white man),”musupe”(an insulting word for albino), ‘nguruve”(pig) amongst other names. Every time he would be humiliated and insulted he would look down and proceed living life like everything was normal..."Read the Rest Here.
Albino Killers: The Long Arm of the Law has finally caught up with them
...as hearing of cases against suspected albino killers start
Suspected albino killers in court
Witnesses in the case in which three people are charged with albino killings in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, testified...Read the Rest Here.
Suspected albino killers in courtWitnesses in the case in which three people are charged with albino killings in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, testified...Read the Rest Here.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Norwegian Journalist told off by former Mwanza RC
This is Mwanza, a region in Tanzania that has been hard-hit by the spate of albino killingsHere I relate the story of a Norwegian writer (in his voice) as told to me by the said writer, a Mr. Sveinung, when he visited Dar es Salaam recently
…………………………………………………….
I was doing a story on the situation for Tanzanians with albinism, visiting the area around Lake Victoria.
I had heard of the Mitindo primary school in Misungwi district, where around a hundred children with albinism live. They are kept safe by surrounding walls and guards. I had difficulty getting hold of contact information for employees of the school, so when I found the address, I just went over in a taxi.
I ran into the head teacher, a courteous man who explained that I needed permission from the district commissioner before I could visit. I was told it was a security thing and a formality. I went to the district commissioner, who told me I had to see the regional commissioner.
Back to Mwanza City.
After waiting about an hour and a half I was granted an audience with the RC, a Mr. James (now of Dodoma, replaced by Abbas Kandoro, formerly of Dar es Salaam), and a woman whose name or position I didn't catch.
He jotted down my personal details from my international press card. I was questioned about my stay and my work. Why had I come to Mwanza? Why not Dar es Salaam? Or Zanzibar?
Because Mwanza is where the problem is, I said.
But why Mitindo? Why not see affected people in the villages?
Aha, but I did, just yesterday.
He doesn’t like this either. Did I just walk in there? How disrespectful. People can’t be expected to trust every face they see. You have to approach the situation carefully and with respect.
I agree, I say, and explain that I had help from someone who knew the area and the people. I didn’t see anyone until someone assured me that they wanted to meet me. The insinuation that I’m this brute who just tramples into a situation with no regard to culture or people is a bit insulting, but I bite my tongue.
So where did I go exactly? I mangle the name of the village, mostly because it strictly isn’t relevant or any of his business at all.
Who did I go with? I fudge the issue but he insists.
Who was it that helped you?
I say that I can’t tell him. The effect is galvanic. He is shouting at me. Since I will not cooperate with him, he will not cooperate with me. He slams his notebook shut. He says that I should leave Mwanza region within 24 hours. I am not to talk to any organizations. He doesn’t even want to see me in the street.
But I have an airplane ticket for another day, I feebly protest.
Your ticket is cancelled! I am told.
I make one last attempt to steer the ship back on course. I say, very respectfully, for his understanding, that I cannot reveal my sources under any circumstances, whether it’s a high profile whistleblower or just some guy in the street who gave me directions. I would have no chance of ever being taken seriously as a journalist if I just handed over the names and telephone numbers of my sources when the authorities demanded that I do so.
This is to no avail. The RC refuses to look at me. He says that we have nothing more to talk about, upon which I take my leave.
Of course, my airplane ticket wasn’t cancelled. I didn’t even bother checking. And I stayed on in Mwanza for another three days, not to be troublesome, but because I still had appointments and a job to do. I got the impression that he tried to scare me off, I don’t know if he actually could have deported, from his region, a professional journalist who’d done nothing wrong.
Earlier in our conversation, before the whole thing got pear-shaped, the RC said that he was surprised to hear that I'd gone straight over to Mitindo without consulting him or asking permission from the regional authorities.
When, for example, he went to Europe, he said, he had to go through the proper channels. He knows this, I should know this. Now, I don’t know much about the RC’s diplomatic visits. They probably have their fair amount of formalities. But there are very few countries in Europe where you have to grovel before a regional commissioner or a governor to plead permission to visit some school. I have no problem with red tape except when its only purpose is to gag journalists. Of course, journalists cannot reveal their sources, and a man as intelligent as the RC knows this. He had no intention of granting me any sort of permission.
I don’t know if he finds that threatening journalists usually shuts them up, but the outrageous treatment I received is, in addition to the theme of a letter of complaint sent to my embassy in Dar es Salaam, a central part of my news story, in place of where the Mitindo section should have been.
I respect the RC. I know of at least one instance where he personally intervened to help find a school for a young person who was attacked. And the Mitindo School, planned expanded, is proof that the local authorities are doing something to protect their weakest.
While police and political corruption and involvement is widely thought to be a huge hindrance to the solving and stopping of albino killings and maimings, there was and still is, I believe, no reason to suspect it reaches the office of the regional commissioner.
But why the RC insisted on acting like someone who had something terrible to hide, you’d have to ask him about it.
All in all, the energy shown at that meeting would be better spent channeled into doing something about the desperate situation for albinos.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Secret Ballot evokes Reprisal
Courtesy of The Guardian newspaper
The recent countrywide secret ballot to identify suspected killers of albinos, the elderly and drug dealers has sparked off acts of retribution following the killing of a schoolteacher in Meatu District, Shinyanga Region, on Tuesday.
According to Meatu District executive director Andrew Juma, whose account was confirmed by the police, the schoolteacher, identified as Peter Nicolaus, was killed by unidentified armed gangsters in front of his house as he tried to escape after suspecting them of waylaying him.
Juma said preliminary investigation by the police indicated that the killing of the Ng’hanga Primary School teacher in Lingeka village followed days of rumours that he served as an informant for the police and was working with them to stop crime in the area.
“On Tuesday evening heavily armed people laid siege to Nicolaus' house. The assailants were reported to have returned to the village basically to avenge for information leaked by the deceased that he had submitted their names to the police as suspected criminals,” said Juma at a news briefing.
Interviewed neighbours said right from the beginning they knew that Nicolaus was doing the right thing to fight crime in the neighbourhood but suspected that something terrible would happen to him.
“Criminals have a network which is quite extensive. They (criminals) are quite unforgiving and ready to commit any crime.
Many people around this place refused to take part in the secret ballot for fear of reprisal similar to what happened to Nicolaus,” a resident, Hamidu Magadula, said.
Another villager, Rozaeli Mbwilo, said Nicolaus's family was traumatized and his death had shocked many people in the village and instilled fear in people who might be ready to expose bad elements in the community.
“This is why I refused to cast my ballot against criminals because the suspects would come to know about it and start looking for those against them and retaliate in a shocking manner as it has happened to Nicolaus.
We are in a dilemma; although we want to get rid of criminals we also don’t want to be killed this way,” Rozaeli said.
When asked to comment on measures taken to stop such killings, a police officer said, “The matter will be discussed with higher authorities to make sure that people and their property are secured.”
With the upsurge in albino killings, especially in the Lake zone, the government took some measures to redress the situation. The first step was revocation of operational permits of traditional healers said to have contributed to the killings".
Visit the IPP site for other news on Tanzania
The recent countrywide secret ballot to identify suspected killers of albinos, the elderly and drug dealers has sparked off acts of retribution following the killing of a schoolteacher in Meatu District, Shinyanga Region, on Tuesday.
According to Meatu District executive director Andrew Juma, whose account was confirmed by the police, the schoolteacher, identified as Peter Nicolaus, was killed by unidentified armed gangsters in front of his house as he tried to escape after suspecting them of waylaying him.
Juma said preliminary investigation by the police indicated that the killing of the Ng’hanga Primary School teacher in Lingeka village followed days of rumours that he served as an informant for the police and was working with them to stop crime in the area.
“On Tuesday evening heavily armed people laid siege to Nicolaus' house. The assailants were reported to have returned to the village basically to avenge for information leaked by the deceased that he had submitted their names to the police as suspected criminals,” said Juma at a news briefing.
Interviewed neighbours said right from the beginning they knew that Nicolaus was doing the right thing to fight crime in the neighbourhood but suspected that something terrible would happen to him.
“Criminals have a network which is quite extensive. They (criminals) are quite unforgiving and ready to commit any crime.
Many people around this place refused to take part in the secret ballot for fear of reprisal similar to what happened to Nicolaus,” a resident, Hamidu Magadula, said.
Another villager, Rozaeli Mbwilo, said Nicolaus's family was traumatized and his death had shocked many people in the village and instilled fear in people who might be ready to expose bad elements in the community.
“This is why I refused to cast my ballot against criminals because the suspects would come to know about it and start looking for those against them and retaliate in a shocking manner as it has happened to Nicolaus.
We are in a dilemma; although we want to get rid of criminals we also don’t want to be killed this way,” Rozaeli said.
When asked to comment on measures taken to stop such killings, a police officer said, “The matter will be discussed with higher authorities to make sure that people and their property are secured.”
With the upsurge in albino killings, especially in the Lake zone, the government took some measures to redress the situation. The first step was revocation of operational permits of traditional healers said to have contributed to the killings".
Visit the IPP site for other news on Tanzania
Monday, April 27, 2009
The Plight of Albinos in Tanzania: What should be done?
I received this email today. I have reproduced it here in its entirety.
Dear Sir/Madam
Tanzania Knowledge Network (TAKNET) is hosting a discussion forum that discuses the The Plight of Albinos in Tanzania.
I am therefore writing to invite you to visit the forum at www.taknet.or.tz to contribute your ideas and experience on the issue and share information and knowledge from others.
At the end of discussion the moderators will come up with policy briefs that we believe will help to influence policies and practices. The forum is conducted both in English and Kiswahili.
Please circulate this email to who ever you think will find the forum useful. Bellow please find introduction to the discussion.
With kind regards,
For Topic moderators
The Plight of Albinos in Tanzania: What should be done?
Recently, albinism in Tanzania has gained a relative attention following the brutal killings of the albinos. Albinism is defined as a genetically inherited disorder resulting from lack of pigmentation in the hair, skin and eyes of those affected. It is a rare genetic condition occurring in both genders regardless of ethnicity. Tanzania is believed to host not more than 170,000 albinos (WHO 2008).
Since 2007, Tanzanians have witnessed a wave of albino killings with parts of their bodies being brutally chopped off. According to the records about 43 albinos have been brutally murdered or their body parts hacked off. This evil is driven by the belief that albinos’ body parts possess magical powers capable of bringing riches. This have eroded Tanzania's image as a sanctuary for the oppressed in the international community, a reputation earned during the liberation struggle in Southern Africa.
Although a number of measures at both international and national levels have been taken to address the problem, more killings are being witnessed. Internationally the International Police (Interpol) have been involved to manhunt the suspected human traffickers operating in other countries. Furthermore the works of renowned campaigners like the Canadian albino businessman Peter Ash (with the Under the Same Sun programme) have been initiated to fight the killings of albinos.
At the national level, these measures can be divided into political, institutional and legal whereby politically his excellence President Kikwete, nominated Member of Parliament, honorable Al-Shymaa Kwegir, (who is also albino) in an effort to raise awareness about the vice and to help demystify the myths about albinos. Institutionally, a number of institutions have been established to address human rights. Furthermore the legal measures have been implemented like the banning of witchdoctors’ operations; directives to the regional security committees to protect albinos; introduction of a secret ballot system for identifying those suspected of dealing in human body parts and provision of mobile phones to albinos to quickly pass on information to investigators.
This discussion topic is therefore intended to collect people’s ideas on what should be done to stop these killings. We therefore welcome you to this discussion focusing on the following giudelines:
The motive behind these killings (economical, political, social and cultural)
In your opinion what are the appropriate measures that can be taken to address the problem (what else should be done?)
The role of Tanzanians in ending this distortion of human rights
The role of international institutions in addressing this problem.
Mr. A.K. Hassan
Senior Information Officer
Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF)
P.O.Box 31226
Dar es Salaam
Tel:+255 -22-2760260 ext 100
Mobile:+255-754 263390
Fax:+255-22-2760062
Email: akhassan@esrf.or.tz
General Email: esrf@esrf.or.tz
Website: http://www.esrftz.org
ESRF is a leading Centre of Excellence in Social and Economic Policy Research and Capacity Building on Policy Analysis and Dialogue in Tanzania and the Region. It is stakeholder-driven and its Board of Trustees consists of representatives from Government, Private Sector, NGOs, Civil Society, Research Institutions and Universities.
Websites managed by ESRF:
http:// www.tanzaniagateway.org -you will get all you need to know about Tanzania.
http://www.tzonline.or.tz -If you need recent publications by government, universities, private sector, development partners, etc on Tanzania,
Kindly give your feedback after visiting the sites. Thank you.
Dear Sir/Madam
Tanzania Knowledge Network (TAKNET) is hosting a discussion forum that discuses the The Plight of Albinos in Tanzania.
I am therefore writing to invite you to visit the forum at www.taknet.or.tz to contribute your ideas and experience on the issue and share information and knowledge from others.
At the end of discussion the moderators will come up with policy briefs that we believe will help to influence policies and practices. The forum is conducted both in English and Kiswahili.
Please circulate this email to who ever you think will find the forum useful. Bellow please find introduction to the discussion.
With kind regards,
For Topic moderators
The Plight of Albinos in Tanzania: What should be done?
Recently, albinism in Tanzania has gained a relative attention following the brutal killings of the albinos. Albinism is defined as a genetically inherited disorder resulting from lack of pigmentation in the hair, skin and eyes of those affected. It is a rare genetic condition occurring in both genders regardless of ethnicity. Tanzania is believed to host not more than 170,000 albinos (WHO 2008).
Since 2007, Tanzanians have witnessed a wave of albino killings with parts of their bodies being brutally chopped off. According to the records about 43 albinos have been brutally murdered or their body parts hacked off. This evil is driven by the belief that albinos’ body parts possess magical powers capable of bringing riches. This have eroded Tanzania's image as a sanctuary for the oppressed in the international community, a reputation earned during the liberation struggle in Southern Africa.
Although a number of measures at both international and national levels have been taken to address the problem, more killings are being witnessed. Internationally the International Police (Interpol) have been involved to manhunt the suspected human traffickers operating in other countries. Furthermore the works of renowned campaigners like the Canadian albino businessman Peter Ash (with the Under the Same Sun programme) have been initiated to fight the killings of albinos.
At the national level, these measures can be divided into political, institutional and legal whereby politically his excellence President Kikwete, nominated Member of Parliament, honorable Al-Shymaa Kwegir, (who is also albino) in an effort to raise awareness about the vice and to help demystify the myths about albinos. Institutionally, a number of institutions have been established to address human rights. Furthermore the legal measures have been implemented like the banning of witchdoctors’ operations; directives to the regional security committees to protect albinos; introduction of a secret ballot system for identifying those suspected of dealing in human body parts and provision of mobile phones to albinos to quickly pass on information to investigators.
This discussion topic is therefore intended to collect people’s ideas on what should be done to stop these killings. We therefore welcome you to this discussion focusing on the following giudelines:
The motive behind these killings (economical, political, social and cultural)
In your opinion what are the appropriate measures that can be taken to address the problem (what else should be done?)
The role of Tanzanians in ending this distortion of human rights
The role of international institutions in addressing this problem.
Mr. A.K. Hassan
Senior Information Officer
Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF)
P.O.Box 31226
Dar es Salaam
Tel:+255 -22-2760260 ext 100
Mobile:+255-754 263390
Fax:+255-22-2760062
Email: akhassan@esrf.or.tz
General Email: esrf@esrf.or.tz
Website: http://www.esrftz.org
ESRF is a leading Centre of Excellence in Social and Economic Policy Research and Capacity Building on Policy Analysis and Dialogue in Tanzania and the Region. It is stakeholder-driven and its Board of Trustees consists of representatives from Government, Private Sector, NGOs, Civil Society, Research Institutions and Universities.
Websites managed by ESRF:
http:// www.tanzaniagateway.org -you will get all you need to know about Tanzania.
http://www.tzonline.or.tz -If you need recent publications by government, universities, private sector, development partners, etc on Tanzania,
Kindly give your feedback after visiting the sites. Thank you.
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