Sightsavers aims to eliminate three neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), including trachoma, river blindness and LF, in the country by distributing medication to stop the spread and transmission of the diseases. We also help to train health workers and community representatives to give out medication and promote good hygiene.
For over 20 years, medication has been distributed to stop the spread of river blindness. Yet large numbers of people are still testing positive for the disease. Our research aims to find new ways to fight river blindness in Cameroon. Efforts are also being made to reach nomadic communities through a strategy to test and treat them in a way that’s culturally appropriate.
It is estimated that two million people in Cameroon have some form of disability. Sightsavers is working to ensure that children with disabilities, including those with visual impairments, are able to go to school and can be educated alongside their peers. We also aim to help adults with disabilities participate fully in society by ensuring they can take part in politics and the democratic process.
View the full video of our Cameroon country director explaining how Sightsavers is helping to achieve the UN’s Global Goals in Cameroon.
How do you provide treatment for neglected tropical diseases like river blindness when you can’t find some of the people who are most at risk? Find out how we reach and treat nomadic communities.
Read the storyA campaign to protect school children from worm infections has been launched in Cameroon. Plus news from Burkina Faso, India and more.
A selection of Sightsavers river blindness photographs featured as part of the Coalition for Operational Research on Neglected Tropical Diseases (COR-NTD) conference.
How do you provide treatment for neglected tropical diseases like river blindness when you can’t find some of the people who are most at risk?
The accolades, from the the International Association and Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), recognise and celebrate young and upcoming staff and volunteers within the eye health sector.
Sightsavers staff provide a first-hand insight into the five ways we’re making sure children with disabilities aren’t left behind during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kareen Atekem reflects on the challenges and opportunities in reaching Cameroon’s nomadic populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.