11/05/2025
Blindness is on the Increase in Sierra Leone
By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Blindness and visual impairments are on the rise in Sierra Leone, posing significant challenges to public health and social well-being. This alarming trend demands urgent action from stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the general public.
According to eye specialists, healthcare providers, and organizations like Sight Savers, the surge in blindness in 2024 is unprecedented in Sierra Leone's history. Dr. John Mattia, Medical Director of the UMC Hospital Eye Clinic in Kissy, Freetown, revealed that the hospital sees over 20,000 eye patients annually. However, the 2024 period has recorded the highest number of cases. He estimated the number of blind individuals in Sierra Leone to exceed 40,000, representing roughly 1% of the population.
Sierra Leone currently has only six active eye specialists, far below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended minimum of 32 for a population of over eight million. Dr. Mattia explained that WHO guidelines call for at least one pediatric and one general ophthalmologist for every 10 million people. The country’s failure to meet these standards underscores the need for collaborative efforts to address the crisis.
Despite challenges, Dr. Mattia acknowledged support from NGOs like Sight Savers and Christian Blind Mission, which have provided funding, equipment, human and other resources to improve eye care services. "However, financial constraints often prevent people from accessing care. Even when patients do come, the workforce is too limited to meet the demand. Tackling existing cases of blindness is a struggle, and new cases only add to the burden. Human resource limitations are a significant factor," he explained.
The economic and social consequences of blindness are profound, affecting individuals, families, and the nation as a whole. Raising awareness about preventable causes, promoting early detection, and ensuring access to treatment are crucial steps. "If you experience cloudy vision, eye pain, or gradual vision loss, seek medical attention immediately," Dr. Mattia advised.
Willie L. Dinking Koroma, a senior optometrist with the National Eye Health Program, noted that Connaught Eye Clinic in Freetown had recorded over 500 cases of blindness. "We have been receiving many patients over the years, but now we are seeing more cases than ever, from ages one to 90. However, more middle-aged individuals are coming than young people," Koroma said. He explained that many Sierra Leoneans lose their sight due to a lack of affordable eye care.
Koroma highlighted that blindness imposes a heavy burden on families and the government, as visually impaired individuals often become dependent on others. This leads to economic, social, and educational losses. To combat blindness, he emphasized the need for awareness campaigns, early detection, and expanded access to eye care services. "Parents must take children with cataracts to eye clinics immediately," he urged.
Koroma commended the government for increasing access to eye care at hospitals nationwide and encouraged people to take advantage of free eye checkups at Connaught Hospital. He also warned against buying and using eye medication without a proper diagnosis. "This practice has caused harm to many over the years," he said. Koroma called for awareness campaigns in schools, on the radio, and within communities. "Don’t assume your eyes are fine just because you can see well now. Regular eye checkups are essential," he concluded.
Salieu Turay, Headmaster of the Milton Margai School for the Blind, highlighted the increasing number of blind children enrolling at the school. He reported enrollment had reached 93 students, the highest in the school’s history. Turay attributed this surge to the growing prevalence of blindness, particularly in Freetown.
According to him, the influx has strained the school’s limited resources and outdated boarding facilities. "Our current boarding home can no longer accommodate the students. The pressure is immense. Despite support from a charitable organization working to expand the boarding facilities, the challenges remain significant," Turay explained.
He called on the government and other stakeholders to provide additional funding, infrastructure, and resources. "Blind children deserve equal access to education and a safe environment to thrive. The continued rise in enrollment risks undermining the school’s ability to deliver quality education," he added.
Alimamy Lahai Mansaray, Ag. Head Teacher of the School for the Blind in Kabala, Koinadugu District, echoed similar concerns. "Currently, the Kabala School for the Blind has 91 students. Many have returned to their villages due to challenges faced in the home. Blindness is on the increase, and this needs a great attention," he said.
He noted that finding blind individuals in rural areas and bringing them to the school is also challenging. Mansaray called for more targeted outreach and support to ensure blind children receive the care and education they need.
