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.
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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 come election day, many still find serious barriers standing between them and the ballot box.
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“The message that we want to say through this radio programme is that people with disabilities have to take part in the electoral process.”
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Robert Oyono is Cameroon’s first senator with a disability, and is calling for people with disabilities to be included in the political process.
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Eveline’s story
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Adieme’s story
“I think if there is a wide mobilisation of the vote among disabled people, it can change things in our country.”
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The Cameroon Cataract Development Impact Loan will provide up to 18,000 cataract operations in the country over the next five years.
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