At Beyond Suncare, we know that prevention starts long before applying sunscreen: it starts with education. In the countries where we work—Uganda, Malawi, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—lack of information remains one of the greatest risks for people with albinism, both in terms of skin cancer and daily discrimination.
This is why we promote training programs that equip local professionals and turn them into trusted references within their communities. They not only provide healthcare: they guide, inform and build confidence in environments where understanding the skin can make the difference between vulnerability and protection.
Training as the foundation of comprehensive care
“The main objective is to improve the care and understanding of people with albinism, ensuring dignified, empathetic and medically sound treatment” explains Alaïtz, our Africa Project Manager.
The trainings combine theory and practice: from managing precancerous lesions to the correct use of sunscreen and psychological support.
This holistic approach allows professionals to understand the specificities of albinism and its impact on the daily lives of those who live with it.
For Alaïtz, training is synonymous with caring. Each session strengthens the quality of healthcare and helps prevent complications that, according to the World Health Organization, continue to disproportionately affect people with albinism in regions with high solar radiation.
An approach that goes beyond medicine
Beyond Suncare’s model goes far beyond delivering medical knowledge.
“We combine medical care, education and social change,” Alaïtz explains. “We create sustainable solutions that empower both patients and local professionals.”
This method transforms health systems from within. By equipping those who work directly with patients, it creates a virtuous circle of trust and respect.
This approach aligns with the vision of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which promotes inclusion and the training of healthcare personnel as essential pathways to guaranteeing the right to health for people with albinism.
The transformation in healthcare workers
In every workshop, health teams move from initial uncertainty to deep engagement. “They recognize their key role in addressing discrimination and preventable skin lesions,” Alaïtz notes.
This change is reflected in the testimonies they share after completing the training. One of the most significant comes from Kharunda Daina, a nurse assistant at the Muyembe Health Centre in the Bugisu sub-region of Uganda:
“Since we received training with this project, our community has completely changed. Today, people with albinism trust our services and seek comprehensive care.”
Her experience summarizes the real impact of this work: where there was once fear or lack of knowledge, there is now confidence, empathy and stronger healthcare responses.
Training those who care: a lasting commitment
For Alaïtz, strengthening the skills of healthcare personnel is a core component of Beyond Suncare’s mission.
“They are the first point of contact for patients, and their knowledge and sensitivity can transform lives, reduce stigma and ensure dignified and lasting care.”
Investing in their training means driving structural change: a more humane, inclusive and sustainable health system.
Local knowledge that saves lives
Each trained professional becomes a multiplier of change, sharing what they’ve learned with colleagues and communities. Training transcends the classroom and becomes a tool for social transformation.
When caregivers also learn, prevention becomes protection, and knowledge becomes life.
If you want to be part of this change, discover how you can support our work and help train more healthcare professionals across Africa.
