MBRGI launches drive to eradicate river blindness in Ghana by 2030

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) has partnered with Noor Dubai to launch a major drive to eradicate river blindness in Ghana by 2030.

The initiative was unveiled at the World Governments Summit.

It will target seven million direct and more than 35 million indirect beneficiaries over the next three years and align with global efforts led by the World Health Organisation to eliminate neglected tropical diseases by the end of the decade.

River blindness, medically known as onchocerciasis, is a disease affecting the eyes and skin, caused by microscopic parasitic worms transmitted through subcutaneous tissue. Symptoms include severe itching, skin changes, and eye lesions that can lead to vision impairment and permanent blindness. In most cases, subcutaneous nodules form due to adult worms, while early exposure in children can result in epilepsy.

Under the partnership, Noor Dubai will oversee the implementation of the project in Ghana, including mass drug administration for prevention and treatment, community surveys and assessments to monitor early signs of the disease, and the training of local healthcare workers.

“This global initiative represents a significant step towards supporting Ghana’s national ambitions while accelerating international efforts to eradicate the disease through MBRGI’s funding and Noor Dubai’s extensive expertise in treating neglected tropical diseases,” said Saeed Al Eter, CEO of MBRGI.

Prof. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority and Chairman of Noor Dubai’s Board of Trustees, added that the programme reflects a long-term commitment to preventing blindness and strengthening healthcare systems to enable communities to enjoy improved quality of life for future generations.