By Ebi Kesiena
In an effort to enhance the care of the eye, International development organisation, Sightsavers has announced the donation of state-of-the-art equipment to residents of Kwara, North Central Nigeria.
The donated equipment, in addition to supporting medical practitioner to improve the effectiveness of eye care services are also expected to assist in bolstering early diagnosis of eye-related issues.
In a statement on Monday, the Communications Associate, Sightsavers, Joy Tarbo who said the campaign is in partnership with the state government listed the donated items to include, diagnostic tools, surgical instruments, and specialised technology to help with early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of eye health issues.
She expressed concern that in 2020 alone, an estimated 24 million people in the country had a vision loss, noting that if concerted effort are not made, this number could increase.
Tarbo quoted Sightsavers Country Director, Dr Sunday Isiyaku as saying: “We know that good eye health equals opportunity, allowing children to learn and adults to earn, and plays an important part in creating a ripple effect across education, wellbeing, economics, and health outcomes, which ultimately helps reduce poverty and allows individuals, communities, and the nation, to thrive.”
He was further quoted to have added, “Sightsavers’ vision is of a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes, and we are committed to supporting individuals with visual impairments to access the support they need. This equipment will help strengthen eye care services and make a lasting impact on the lives of people in the state.
The statement quoted the Permanent Secretary Kwara State Ministry of Health, Dr. Abubakar Ayinla to have expressed gratitude to Sightsavers for upholding the age-long partnership with the state government in enhancing the welfare of the people through adequate eye care.
“We are deeply grateful to Sightsavers for sustaining this age-long partnership and supporting the change narrative of the administration of His Excellency, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) with this invaluable equipment, to enhance care of our eye patients and training of our personnel”, he said.
He added, “This collaboration underscores our commitment to prioritising the well-being of our citizens and ensuring that quality eye care services are readily available to everyone.”
“The partnership between Sightsavers and Kwara State government is a significant step forward towards reducing the burden of vision impairment in the region. Combining resources, expertise, and a shared vision, will create sustainable, long-term change and promote eye health for all”, the Permanent Secretary noted further.
However, Sightsavers stated that it works in more than 30 low and middle income countries to end avoidable blindness, treat and eliminate neglected tropical diseases, and promote equality of opportunity for people with disabilities.
With a vision of a world where no one is blind from avoidable causes and people with disabilities participate equally in the society.
