Albino Refugee Gains Confidence Through Shared Action Africa.
Victoria Francine, an Albino Refugee Empowered by Shared Action Africa.
Victoria Francine, an albino and refugee living in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Isingiro District, has shared her powerful testimony following the intervention of Shared Action Africa during their recent community outreach program. The outreach specifically targeted people with albinism, aiming to provide them with access to essential sexual and reproductive health services, which many of them had previously been unable to receive due to stigma, fear, and lack of information.
The program, conducted in Nakivale, was designed to empower vulnerable groups such as young albinos who often face challenges of discrimination, isolation, and limited access to health services. Through the outreach, Shared Action Africa not only delivered medical support but also provided guidance, counseling, and practical training to ensure that participants could lead healthier and more confident lives.
Victoria explained that her life was transformed as a result of the teachings and training provided by the health team. She emphasized that the outreach addressed some of the most personal and critical issues that young girls like her face, particularly around menstrual hygiene.
“I did not know how to wear and use sanitary pads. I had never used them in my life before, but now I know. I understand their use and importance in life,” Victoria said. “I was trained by the Shared Action Africa health team on how to use them and how to stay clean as a girl. Afterwards, the Shared Action Africa team provided me with free pads. I no longer lack them; I now have them in big numbers.”
Victoria added that before the intervention, she relied on pieces of cloth to manage her menstruation. This, however, exposed her to frequent infections and poor hygiene, which affected her health and wellbeing. “Before, I used to rely on pieces of cloth, which often gave me infections, and I was always sick. But now I am okay, I feel fine, and I have no problem,” she explained.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organization for stepping in to address the challenges faced by people living with albinism. “God bless Shared Action Africa and keep it strong to continue helping people like me,” Victoria concluded.
The story of Victoria reflects the broader mission of Shared Action Africa, which continues to work with marginalized groups in refugee settlements to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing health, dignity, and equal opportunities.
ocus said.