DP World Foundation and Noor Dubai Foundation partnered with local NGOs to conduct cataract surgical outreach programs in Somaliland and Puntland, addressing the significant need for eye care in the Horn of Africa.
With a population of 5.7 million, Somaliland faces challenges with 1.2% prevalence of visual impairment, primarily due to cataracts. Visual loss in Somalia is at 9.10%, with 53% of females affected. (69 words)
DP World Foundation is the charitable arm of DP World, a global ports and logistics company. In Somaliland, it operates the Berbera Port and Berbera Economic Zone. It also operates Bosaso Port in the neighbouring Puntland region of Somalia.
Noor Dubai Foundation is a UAE-based foundation working under the umbrella of the Mohamed Bin Rashid Global Initiatives (MBRGI) for the prevention of blindness globally.
The collaboration with local medical staff allowed 698 cataract surgeries across Berbera and Bosaso. This partnership model aims to increase accessibility to quality eye care, reduce the burden of visual disability, and build surgical capacity within the country.
In Berbera, the capital of the Sahil region, 1,350 medical consultations were conducted along with 375 cataract surgeries. Additionally, 299 eyeglasses and 1,039 medications were distributed to those in need.
In Bosaso, the economic capital of Puntland, another 1,429 medical consultations were provided, along with 323 cataract surgeries, while 1,095 eyeglasses and 2,024 medications were distributed to support the local community.
Nasser Abdulla, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of DP World Foundation, said,
"We are proud to partner with Noor Dubai Foundation and local NGOs to provide critical eye care services to the people of Somaliland. Our commitment to improving access to quality healthcare remains unwavering, and through collaborative efforts such as these, we aim to make a meaningful impact in reducing visual impairment and enhancing the overall well-being of the community."
Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO and Board Member of Noor Dubai Foundation, said,
"Noor Dubai Foundation is dedicated to supporting access to eye-care services globally and this continues to be a relevant matter that requires our intervention. We are honoured to partner with DP World Foundation to expand our reach and impact in new geographies to ensure a meaningful impact on the communities served.”
News Source: Emirates News Agency
