WHO Urges African Countries to Prioritize Eye Health Investment

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on African governments to increase investment in eye care to address the rising burden of preventable blindness on the continent. On World Sight Day 2025, WHO's Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, emphasized the importance of prioritizing eye health to enhance human development and economic prosperity.

Janabi highlighted the significant impact of good vision on academic performance, employment opportunities, and overall productivity. The statement commended progress in tackling causes of blindness like vitamin deficiency and trachoma but warned of new challenges from an aging population and noncommunicable diseases, stressing the need for targeted interventions to prevent vision impairment.