Our work in Cameroon
Many neglected tropical diseases are endemic in Cameroon. In 2019 we distributed more than 4.5 million treatments and trained 10,000 volunteers to give out medication.
More than five million people in Cameroon require treatment for trachoma, and more than 16 million for lymphatic filariasis (LF).
Sightsavers aims to eliminate four 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 more than 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 is also finding 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.
At a glance
Total populationWhat we focus on
Key programmes
Previous programmes
How we’re making a difference in Cameroon
With the help of our partners, we’re pioneering a new way of funding health care in the country. With the help of a development loan, we hope to provide up to 18,000 cataract operations in Cameroon by 2022.
Read the storyYour donation could help to protect sight
DONATEMore from Cameroon
Programme staff explain how we’re supporting children's learning during lockdown
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.
Why innovation is urgently needed to reach nomadic communities during COVID-19
Kareen Atekem reflects on the challenges and opportunities in reaching Cameroon’s nomadic populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How our research is finding new ways to fight river blindness
For more than 20 years, medication has been distributed in Cameroon to stop the spread of river blindness. Yet people are still testing positive for the disease. We wanted to know why.
50,000 patients screened during first year of innovative cataract project
The Cameroon Cataract Development Impact Loan brings together public and private investors alongside eye care delivery experts and charities, including Sightsavers.
Mbalmayo Disability Group, Cameroon
In Cameroon there are laws protecting the rights of people with disabilities, including the right to vote. Yet many still struggle to access the ballot box.
Michel’s story
“The message we want to give through this radio show is that people with disabilities in Cameroon are able to take part in the electoral process.”
We save sight in 30 countries worldwide
Where we work