Zambia
Sightsavers is working towards eliminating blinding trachoma in Zambia. In 2017, we distributed more than 2.8 million treatments to help control the spread of the disease.
Two-thirds of Zambia’s population live in poverty, and it’s thought that one in 10 people has some form of visual impairment.
Almost 20 per cent of the population live in areas affected by blinding trachoma. This infectious disease starts out a bit like conjunctivitis, but if it’s not treated it causes scarring to the eyelid that makes the eyelashes turn inward, so with every blink they scrape against the eye. We’re working to eliminate the disease in Zambia by distributing medication, providing eye surgery and educating local communities about the importance of good hygiene.
Our work in the country also involves making sure eye health services are available for everyone, particularly marginalised groups such as women and people with disabilities. By preventing blindness, we ensure that people can continue to take care of their families, support themselves and earn a living.
At a glance
Total populationWhat we focus on
Key programmes
How we’re making a difference in Zambia
Reaching remote areas
Mr Ndalela is the only eye surgeon in Senanga who can carry out tricky procedures. He’s able to build close relationships within the community.
Read Mr Ndalela’s story
Fighting disease
Namukolo had trachoma, and her eyes were causing her immense pain. After treatment, the pain is gone and she can return to school with her friends.
Read Namukolo’s story
Training health workers
Sightsavers' Alistair Burnett visited a hospital in southern Zambia to learn how six weeks of training for health staff can improve eye care for all.
Read Alistair’s trip report
Your donation could help to protect sight
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Givemore’s story
Ophthalmic nurse Givemore travels to remote communities in Zimbabwe to examine people for signs of blinding trachoma. He's determined to make sure everyone is treated so their sight can be saved.
Augusto’s story
Augusto, who had both cataracts and trachoma, struggled to get medical help because of his disability. But Sightsavers’ inclusive healthcare approach enabled him to be treated.
September highlights: updates from around the world
News from Zambia, where Sightsavers helped Felix to gain his ophthalmology diploma. Plus news from Guinea, Togo and more.
How water is vital to fight trachoma
To mark World Water Week 2018, Sightsavers’ NTD Programme Officer Cade Howard shares tips from the field about how water can help to eliminate this painful, blinding disease.
August highlights: updates from around the world
The latest from Kenya, where Sightsavers staff have been carrying out eye screenings in a refugee camp in Turkana. Plus news from India and Nigeria.
Winesi’s update
After years of fear and struggle, Winesi and his family have found happiness and hope for the future thanks to a cataract operation funded by people like you.
July highlights: updates from around the world
An update from Benin, where eye care staff have been travelling 3km on foot to treat ‘the disease at the end of the road’. Plus news from Nigeria, Pakistan and more.
More UK funding announced for disability-inclusive employment initiatives
The funding, which was announced by UK Secretary of State Penny Mordaunt, aims to address disability inclusion in developing countries.
June highlights: updates from around the world
A round-up of the latest work that your donations help to support. Featuring news from India, Kenya, Senegal, Uganda and Nigeria.
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Where we work