They say that although it is advisable that they wear photophobia glasses as a relief from light sensitivity the glasses are costly and inaccessible on the local market. Albinism as a condition is synonymous with low intolerance to light, a situation which often results into intense pain.
Annet Tumushiime, 26, a resident of Kibaya cell, Nyakabande Sub County says that when there is sunshine, images that are far from her appear out of focus and blurred.
She says that although she needs the glasses, they are unaffordable for her. The glasses are sold at not less than 350,000 Ugandan Shillings on the open market. Tumushiime appeals that government prioritizes the issuance of photophobia glasses as a way of extending affirmative action to the albino community.
Brian Iraguha 15, a senior two student of Kisoro Vision Secondary School says that he sometimes fails to read and interpret some of the questions typed on papers due to sight problems caused by albinism.
Michael Sabiiti, the founder and executive director for Site for Community Services Program, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) operating in western Uganda says that he has registered fifty children with Albinism, 23 of them, hailing in Kisoro district.
The NGO had partnered with Ruharo Eye Center operating under Ankole Diocese in Mbarara to donate some glasses to albinos. However, Sabiiti says they failed to cater for all of them due to financial incapacitation. They only provided five pairs of glasses.
Kisoro District Chairperson Abel Bizimana pledged to table the concern before the council so that they can be considered in the District budget.
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