In recognition of World Sight Day on October 9, the Cure Blindness Project (CBP) announced new initiatives to expand access to eye care across Asia and Africa. The global nonprofit, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary, continues its mission to eliminate avoidable blindness through sight-restoring surgeries, professional training, and large-scale vision screenings.

Strengthening Eye Health Across South Asia

Bhutan – In collaboration with the World Health Organization and Bhutan’s Ministry of Health, CBP is supporting the development of a 5-year National Eye Health Strategy that is aimed at creating sustainable, nationwide eyecare systems. CBP has served as Bhutan’s primary eye health NGO for more than 20 years.

Nepal – Leading up to and following World Sight Day, CBP will conduct tens of thousands of community and school-based eye screenings at local centers and hospitals in underserved regions. More than 100 public service announcements will air on Nepalese radio to raise awareness about eye health.

India – CBP’s office in India recently released a Social Return on Investment report conducted by Deloitte that shows each $1 USD invested in eye health yields $7.30 in social return, including improved quality of life and increased productivity. Cure Blindness Project teams will also conduct school-based screenings in Uttar Pradesh that will reach 1,000 children with limited access to care.

Advancing Eye Care in Africa

Ethiopia – During the first half of 2025, CBP supported 55% of all cataract surgeries performed in the country and has contributed to 20,648 surgeries since January. The organization and its partners are on track to complete more sight-restoring surgeries in Ethiopia this year than at any other point in its 30-year history.

Ghana – A 3-day training program was recently held for 25 ophthalmic nurses from 5 regions to enhance primary care capacity. In partnership with Peek Vision, the organization also launched a pilot program that equipped nurses with digital tools to detect, manage, and refer patients for early treatment.

South Sudan – In collaboration with The Carter Center, the Ophthalmological Association of South Sudan, the Ministry of Health, and Christian Blind Mission, CBP has launched a new Ophthalmic Clinical Officer Training Program. The 1-year initiative trains mid-level health workers to perform cataract surgeries and manage common eye diseases through surgical practice, clinical mentorship, and postoperative care training.

To date, the Cure Blindness Project and its partners have performed more than 1.84 million sight-restoring surgeries, trained more than 25,200 eyecare professionals, and provided screenings and basic treatment to more than 19.1 million people in 30 countries.

More information is available at www.cureblindness.org. OM