In many rural regions of Africa, there is a critical shortage of well-trained ophthalmologists who can operate on cataracts and other diseases, especially in sub-Saharan countries like Uganda and Malawi. The number of ophthalmologists per million population ranges from 1.1 to 4.4, compared to an average of 80 ophthalmologists per million in high-income countries.
In Uganda, for example, there is only one ophthalmologist for every one million people—far less than the recommended minimum ratio. The country needs about 96 more ophthalmologists. As a result, communities often have limited access to effective treatment for more serious eye diseases.
The scholarship programme
Since 2000, CBM has sponsored young doctors in Africa to train as ophthalmologists. For the 2023/2024 academic year, 12 doctors from Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Benin, D.R Congo, South Sudan,, Zambia, Sierra Leone and Tanzania were awarded scholarships and are now training at various African institutions.
This comprehensive programme ensures they receive top-quality education and training, which they can bring back to remote areas where eye care is scarce. The scholarship covers tuition, training instruments, professional costs, and a stipend.
To amplify its impact, the programme now includes training for mid-level eye care professionals such as optometrists, specialised ophthalmic nurses, and low-vision experts. So far, CBM has awarded 108 scholarships for MMED in ophthalmology and 86 for ophthalmologists. These professionals are now working in eye health centres, teaching institutions, and government health departments, significantly contributing to eliminating preventable blindness.
