Sightsavers and GiveWell

GiveWell is known for its in-depth analysis to find and recommend charities. It has recommended and funded Sightsavers for our deworming programmes since 2017.

These programmes treat children for two parasitic infections: schistosomiasis, an infection that causes the death of 200,000 people a year in sub-Saharan Africa, and intestinal worms, which affect 1.5 billion people worldwide. 

Both these ancient diseases have been infecting humans for thousands of years. If left untreated, they can cause nutritional problems and can affect cognitive and physical development. This not only has an impact on children’s health, but also affects their ability to concentrate, which may cause them to miss school – this affects their future prospects and has a broader impact on the economy.

What do GiveWell and Sightsavers hope to achieve? 

Thanks to GiveWell-supported projects, Sightsavers aims to treat school-age children for schistosomiasis and intestinal worms through programmes in schools and local communities. Both diseases can be treated with a single dose of deworming medication, often distributed in schools by specially trained teachers, who also promote the importance of hand washing and good hygiene. By preventing infection, students are more likely to be able to stay in school.  

Which countries are involved? 

Sightsavers’ GiveWell-supported deworming projects are protecting children from schistosomiasis and intestinal worms in Nigeria, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau and Cameroon.