GENEVA, 12 July 2017 / PRN Africa / -- United Nations Independent Expert Ikponwosa Ero is making her first visit to Tanzania from 18-28 July to assess the human rights situation of people with albinism.

“This visit is particularly important given the numerous attacks against people with albinism reported in Tanzania, and in light of some unique Government measures to address the issue,” said Ms. Ero.

“I'm looking forward to the mission so I can evaluate the situation people are in, learn from the measures that have been adopted, and identify gaps in their implementation so these can be closed,” added the expert, who visits the country at the invitation of the Government.

Tanzania was one of the first countries where attacks against people with albinism were reported. These include murder, mutilation and kidnappings to extract body parts for ritual purposes.

“It has been about a decade since the news of the first reported attack emerged from Tanzania, so this visit provides a timely opportunity to assess what protection, including temporary shelters, has been made available for people who fear returning to their communities,” said Ms. Ero, who is conducting the visit at the invitation of the Government.

The Independent Expert investigates all forms of human rights violations being experienced by people with albinism in different countries, including assaults, living in fear of attack and being left behind in development goals. She identifies and promotes good practices, and combats the stereotypes, prejudices, and harmful practices which lead to human rights abuses.

At the end of her visit, on Friday 28 July 2017, Ms. Ero will share her preliminary observations at a press conference at the ‘One UN Conference Room', One UN Compound, Oysterbay, Dar es Salaam, starting at 10.00AM local time. Access to the press conference will be strictly limited to journalists.

The Independent Expert will present a comprehensive report on her visit to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2018.

SOURCE United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)