QRCS supports cataract surgeries in Niger

Doha, Qatar: Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has launched a large-scale ophthalmology and anti-blindness campaign in Niger, aimed at giving the most vulnerable populations better access to specialised ophthalmology services.

Being implemented by Niger’s National Eye Health Program (PNSO), the project is a partnership between QRCS’s representation office in Niger and Direct Aid–Niger, with joint funding from QRCS and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).

Under the project, medical examinations and consultations will be provided for 12,000 patients with eye conditions and 2,000 cataract surgeries will be performed to help improve eye health in Niamey, Diffa, Tillabéri, and Zinder Regions.

The project is part of the Alliance to Fight Avoidable Blindness (AFAB), a major international public health initiative led by IsDB, alongside partner countries and organizations, to treat and prevent cataract-induced and preventable blindness in sub-Saharan Africa.

Through this initiative, the partners reiterate their commitment to fighting against avoidable blindness, improving the quality of life for people with cataracts, and promoting equitable and fair access to specialised and high-quality ophthalmology services for all target groups in Niger.