Transforming Futures: Eye Care Innovations in Rural Mozambique

In a remarkable effort to improve the lives of children with vision problems, doctors in rural Mozambique are training community members to recognize treatable eye issues, ensuring conditions like congenital cataracts are addressed early on, thus keeping children in school.

Muanema Fakira was worried about her 2-year-old daughter, Sumaya, who had a cloudy left eye. After being directed to a pediatric ophthalmologist in Quelimane, Dr. Isaac Vasco da Gama diagnosed Sumaya with a congenital cataract. Skeptical at first, Ms. Fakira learned that infections at birth could lead to such conditions even in children. Fortunately, surgery, a commonplace procedure for Dr. da Gama, could restore Sumaya’s vision and improve her quality of life.

This initiative is critical in Mozambique, where pediatric ophthalmologists are scarce—Dr. da Gama is one of only three available in a nation of 30 million. By educating nurses, teachers, and parents about eye health, this program not only spotlights the importance of early diagnosis but also empowers communities to take proactive steps in preventing vision loss, ultimately ensuring that children remain in school, ready to learn and thrive.