The TY Danjuma Foundation, in collaboration with the Care Vision Support Initiative (CAVSI), recently concluded a series of free comprehensive eye care interventions in Taraba and Edo state. These initiatives were specifically designed to reduce preventable blindness among adults and children in the underserved communities of Zing Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State and Igueben LGA in Edo State, Nigeria.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, approximately 2.2 billion people suffer from near or distance vision impairment. At least 1 billion of these cases are preventable. The latest Nigerian National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey revealed that 84% of blindness cases in the country are avoidable. In response to this challenge, the TY Danjuma Foundation (TYDF) is strategically supporting interventions that promote eye health and prevent avoidable blindness.
The life-changing interventions in Taraba and Edo state involved a diverse team of eye professionals. They provided free comprehensive eyecare services, including training for primary healthcare workers, school eye interventions, eye screenings, consultations, eye surgeries, refraction services, and dispensing of essential medications. In total, over 4,000 persons registered to access the services across the states.
Intervention Outcome
For most of the beneficiaries, the eye health interventions were transformative. Mr. Igbinosa shared his three-year struggle with bilateral cataracts. He described the financial burden, the challenges of enduring the condition, and the impact on his mental well-being. After benefiting from the free surgical excision, he noted with optimism and deep gratitude that there is hope for others going through similar challenges, thanks to the generosity of Gen. TY Danjuma – the Founder and Chairman emeritus of the Foundation.
Mr. Igbinosa During and After the Cataract Excision
Since inception in 2009, the Foundation has supported 340 interventions across 36 states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory reaching over 10 million people.