Sightsavers in Ethiopia

People in Ethiopia are at high risk of catching trachoma, a painful eye disease that can lead to blindness.

It is one of five countries that, together, are home to almost half the world’s cases of active trachoma.

The government has been investing in primary health care since the 1970s, but there is a shortage of essential resources, and health care is scarce in rural areas. The costs of medical help are also a significant burden for many households, leading to financial hardship and causing many people to avoid using health care.

Trachoma is one of five neglected tropical diseases are endemic in Ethiopia, putting millions of people at risk of blindness and disability. Sightsavers’ work in the country focuses on treating and preventing the disease.

In 2012, we tracked cases of trachoma in Ethiopia as part of the Global Trachoma Mapping Project. The data we collected showed that the disease was a public health problem in 90 per cent of districts.

To tackle this, as part of the Accelerate programme, Sightsavers and partners used the World Health Organization’s SAFE strategy to stop the spread of trachoma through surgery, antibiotics, face washing and environmental improvements. In 2023, we helped to distribute more than two million treatments for trachoma in the country.

Contact us: If you have any questions about our work in Ethiopia, would like details about our programmes or wish to discuss ways you can donate or support us, email [email protected]