An exploratory study on albinism killings in Umhlabuyalingana settlements of Kwazulu-Natal Province, South Africa

Abstract

People with Albinism are often terrified as the nature and extent of this crime continue increasing. Africa is mainly dealing with this issue, and South Africa appears to be one of the countries grappling with this horrific crime. Thus, this study’s main objective was to explore the Albnism killings of Umhlabuyalingana of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province, South Africa, focusing on the nature of this practice and the perceptions of community members on this scourge. This qualitative study adopted the case study research design, aided by an exploratory research objective. About Twenty (20) participants were selected in Umhlabauyalingana area, using the convenience sampling technique; they were all subjected to one-on-one interviews. The collected data were analysed using the inductive Thematic Content Analysis (TCA) method. This study establishes that albinism genocide has an adverse effect on the livelihood of people living with albinism in the community. This scourge do affects their daily lives, hugely affecting performance of their duties without fear of being abducted. Moreover, individuals closer to the potential victims also fear for the lives of their loved ones. Therefore, albinism killings affects the entire community and people closer to the potential vitims/victim. For recommendation:visible and responsive programmes must be established across South Africa