– I think I will meet people who have had their arms and legs amputated. It could be that I get a little scared because this can also happen to others. That’s what 10-year-old Herman Knutsen says. news has previously told about the young boy from Kristiansand, who started collecting empty bottles to help children with albinism in Tanzania. Herman has spent hours in front of the pawn shop. The result is NOK 90,000. – I am proud of myself. I can say that. I think several people can help each other. On Monday, the journey started towards Haydom in Tanzania, where Herman and his family will meet the people he wants to help. Herman has also packed clothes and toys he no longer uses to give away. Photo: Victoria Marie Nordahl / news A cruel fate It all started when, as a 6-year-old, Herman heard about children with albinism in Tanzania through an aid project, which is supported by a local gang at home in Greipstad in Kristiansand. – It is stupid that some children are treated worse than others because they are poor or look different, says Herman. In 2017, news wrote about the atrocities people with albinism in Tanzania are exposed to. A macabre industry where the blood and organs of albinos are used in black magic. Albinism is more common in Africa than in the rest of the world. It is a congenital genetic condition that causes the body not to produce enough melanin, a pigment that protects the skin from the dangerous rays of the sun and gives the skin color. In Tanzania, the albinos are called the “ghost people” », a sign of the extreme prejudice against them. Great commitment After Herman’s project became known, he has been contacted by several people who have wanted to help. With the help of his family, he has collected loads of empty bottles from several places. Several children have also contacted him and offered mortgage assistance. – There must be more good people than bad people. It already is, but there could be even more good ones, says Herman. Herman will be away for two weeks. Here he is looking at pictures of one of the places they are going to visit. Photo: Victoria Marie Nordahl / news Impressed by the 10-year-old SOS Children’s Villages Norway has several children with albinism in its aid programs. They say they are incredibly impressed by Herman’s efforts. – He says he is doing this because children should be treated equally regardless of where they come from and what they look like. This is exactly what we are also working for, says Cecilie Asbøll, who is a press advisor in SOS Children’s Villages. – The fact that he has been around for several years shows an admirable commitment that should inspire us all. Especially at a time when children’s rights are constantly being challenged in several places in the world and the needs are only increasing as a result of concurrent crises, says Asbøll. Not going to give up just yet When Herman started pawning bottles, he didn’t know that he would ever go to Tanzania. But even if he is on his way to Tanzania now, this is not the end of visas for the young firebrand. – I will probably continue. At least until I turn 11. That is my goal, says the 10-year-old.
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