Our work in Republic of Congo
Sightsavers’ work in the Republic of Congo focuses on preventing the spread of neglected tropical diseases such as river blindness, by distributing treatments to people at risk.
Diseases such as river blindness are endemic in Republic of Congo, with an estimated 518,000 people needing medication to protect against this potentially blinding disease.
River blindness, one of a group of conditions known as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), is spread by the bite of infected black flies that breed near fast-flowing rivers. The disease can cause severe irritation and itching. If it’s not treated, it can eventually lead to blindness.
Sightsavers and partners aim to eliminate river blindness in the country by distributing medication to protect and treat the disease, as well as improving the quality of treatment by training health workers and volunteers to give out medication in the community.
At a glance
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Key programmes
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Three Sightsavers nominees win IAPB awards
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.
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On 30 January, Sightsavers joined in celebrations for the first ever World NTD Day around the world.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo may have the highest burdens of neglected tropical diseases, but people on the ground are working to protect communities.
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Our research shows that a lack of education and financial resources, social stigma and inaccessible physical infrastructure mean fewer people with disabilities are participating in politics in Africa.
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.
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50,000 patients screened during first year of innovative cataract project
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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.”
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Where we work