Albinism pageant in Zimbabwe joyfully breaks down prejudice

SUMMARY

About 70,000 of Zimbabwe's estimated 1.6 crore people are born with albinism, according to government figures. They often stand out, making them a subject of discrimination and ridicule. The Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe competition, now in its second year, is a chance to push back.

By APMay 25, 2019 8:42:53 PM IST (Updated)

Ayanda Sibanda smiles, after being crowned Miss Albinism Zimbabwe 2019 at an albino pageant held in Harare. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

Edson Mambinge, centre, is crowned Mr Albinism Zimbabwe 2019 at an albino pageant held in Harare. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

About 70,000 of Zimbabwe’s estimated 1.6 crore people are born with albinism. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

People who are born with albinism are often subjected to discrimination and ridicule. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

Contestants are seen during rehearsals for the Miss Albinism Zimbabwe 2019. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

Contestants wait to go on stage during the Mr and Miss Zimbabwe Albinism pageant. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

A contestant combs his hair backstage before a Mr and Miss Zimbabwe Albinism pageant. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

A contestant walks on stage, during the Mr and Miss Zimbabwe Albinism pageant. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)