Albinism can affect people from all ethnic backgrounds, but it is more noticeable among Black people than white people. Despite this, across the African continent, there is very little understanding of the skin condition and as a result, many believe that albinism results from mystical forces, whether God, the devil or witchcraft. Some of the superstitions are benign; others have proven more dangerous.
In Tanzania, witch doctors have spread the myth that individuals with albinism and their body parts have superpowers. For example, anglers use nets woven from albino hair, believing these nets will catch more fish. Witch doctors also use body parts from albino individuals as ingredients in potions or as a trinket for jewellery to bring good fortune and wealth to those who possess them.
Victims can be kidnapped and then dismembered by hired killers or even sold by unscrupulous family members, with body parts fetching up to $75,000. The UN estimates around 80 people with albinism in Tanzania have been murdered since 2000.