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Our work in Liberia

Many people in Liberia suffer from diseases such as river blindness. In 2021, we helped to distribute almost 5.1 million treatments to stop the spread of these diseases.

Young girl stands with her hand outstretched to receive medication from a woman holding a spoon and pill bottle

Sightsavers is working to eliminate two neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Liberia – river blindness and lymphatic filiariasis – by distributing medication each year to communities at risk.

Alongside the medication programme, we produce educational materials to raise awareness of the importance of eye health. We train local volunteers to distribute medication within their communities, and we carry out screenings to check for river blindness and lymphatic filariasis so patients can be referred for treatment. The Ascend West and Central Africa programme has supported ministries to combat these diseases, as well as provide treatment to protect communities from schistosomiasis.

About 50 per cent of people in Liberia live in rural areas that often lack health services. The poor road networks exacerbate the problem: only seven per cent of Liberia’s roads are paved. We work with the Ministry of Health and others to identify and fill gaps in eye care, especially in remote areas.

At a glance

Total population
  • 4.8 million

  • What we focus on
  • Cataracts
  • River blindness
  • Lymphatic filariasis
  • Schistosomiasis

  • Key programmes
  • Cataract surgery
  • Ascend
  • SHIP
  • Without the glasses I was not going to see again. But since I can see, my future will be good.
    14-year-old Patience
    A close-up of Patience wearing glasses and a face mask.
    A male healthcare worker stands outside wearing a colourful face mask and a white coat.

    How we’re making a difference

    Sightsavers, along with programme partners from the Ascend West and Central Africa programme, helped Liberia respond to the COVID-19 crisis. Meet the incredible people who made this possible.

    Read the story

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