Eldoret: The First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto, has urged Kenyans to support the community of individuals living with albinism, encouraging the public to challenge the stigma often associated with them. Her remarks were made during the International Albinism Awareness Day 2025 celebrations, held at Huruma Sub County Hospital grounds in Uasin Gishu County.
According to Kenya News Agency, the First Lady commended the president for his commitment to upholding the rights and needs of people living with disabilities, highlighting his decision to sign the People with Disabilities Act on May 8, 2025. This Act aims to protect, promote, and advance the rights and dignity of people with disabilities in the country, demonstrating the government's dedication to inclusivity and respect.
Mama Rachel emphasized the importance of celebrating everyone in society, regardless of their differences, and mentioned that since the United Nations declared June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day in 2014, countries worldwide have been urged to protect the rights and health of individuals with albinism. She stressed that inclusion requires breaking barriers to education, employment, and societal participation.
Citing former South African President Thabo Mbeki, she highlighted the collective responsibility to support marginalized members of society, indicating that national progress is measured by the care extended to these individuals. She called for a Kenya that champions inclusivity and fairness, where people with albinism can coexist without fear of discrimination.
The First Lady praised the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and the Kenya Medical Supply Authority for distributing free sunscreen to over 3,800 people living with albinism. She also acknowledged individuals such as Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura and Justice Grace Mumbi Ngugi for their significant contributions to raising awareness and advocating for people with albinism.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura reinforced government support through the National Council for Persons with Disabilities' Albinism Support Program, which provides protective products and comprehensive eye care. The event was attended by several notable figures, including Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim, NCPWD Chairperson Elizabeth Chesang, among others.