Unlocking Vision: Alcon’s Transformative Journey in Tackling Cataract Blindness in Africa

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Lilian Mukoche

Kenya

Joined Mar 16, 2013

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Alcon Library

Jan Landman, Alcon’s Country Manager and Surgical Head

Johannesburg, South Africa

In a continent where over 110 million people grapple with vision impairment, Alcon, the global leader in eye care, is making bold strides to combat one of Africa's most significant health challenges cataract- related blindness. On the 11th of December 2024, the organization celebrated the first anniversary of its African Phaco Development (PD) Program, marking a transformative year of partnerships, training, and progress in eye care.

The Visionary Mission

Africa accounts for 6.7 million cases of cataract-related blindness, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Factors like limited access to quality healthcare, a shortage of skilled eye care professionals, and socio-economic hurdles have compounded the crisis, leaving millions in darkness. Yet, Alcon’s African PD Program aims to rewrite this narrative with its principle of “Skill Africa, by Africa, for Africa.”

The initiative, launched in partnership with Orbis International, focuses on tackling cataract blindness by strengthening healthcare systems through targeted training and purposeful collaboration. This unique approach not only enhances local capacity but also empowers African professionals to drive sustainable change.

Impact by the Numbers

Over the past year, the African PD Program has trained 61 eye care professionals across South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia. These newly equipped specialists are already transforming lives through advanced surgical techniques like phacoemulsification—a modern, minimally invasive procedure for cataract removal.

Jan Landman, Alcon’s Country Manager and Surgical Head, emphasizes the urgent need for this work. “It’s saddening to know that one in every six blind people live in Africa. Our program aims to change this narrative by building healthcare capacity through action-oriented collaborations and training,” he said. Alcon’s ambitious goal is to train over 450 professionals by 2029, ensuring millions of patients gain access to life-changing eye care.

The Power of Partnerships

At the heart of the African PD Program is a partnership with Orbis International, a global nonprofit dedicated to combating avoidable blindness. Dr. Hunter Cherwek, Vice President of Clinical Services and Technologies at Orbis, highlights the importance of collaboration: “This

program showcases the true impact of partnerships. No single organization can

address the urgent challenges of eye care in Africa. It’s through shared

expertise, resources, and vision that we can bring hope to millions suffering from preventable blindness.”

Together, Alcon and Orbis are paving the way for more inclusive, accessible eye care. The program’s success also sets the stage for its expansion into other African nations, amplifying its reach and impact.

A Legacy of Sight-Restoring Innovation

The African PD Program is part of Alcon’s broader Phaco Development initiative, which has a legacy of training over 6,900 surgeons globally since its inception in 2008. These efforts have enabled an estimated 11 million sight-restoring procedures in regions like China, India, Russia, and South Africa.

By bringing this expertise to Africa, Alcon aims to replicate its success while tailoring solutions to the continent’s unique challenges. The commitment to “Skill Africa, by Africa” underscores a vision of sustainability where local professionals become the torchbearers of change.

Stories of Hope

Behind every cataract surgery is a story of renewed hope. Patients who once relied on family members for basic tasks are regaining independence. Children who struggled in school due to poor vision now have a brighter future. The ripple effects extend beyond individual lives, contributing to healthier communities and stronger economies.

The Road Ahead

As Alcon celebrates this milestone, the organization remains steadfast in its mission. With plans to expand its reach and train hundreds more professionals, the African PD Program is a beacon of what is possible when expertise meets purpose.

“Our journey has just begun,” said Landman. “Through collaboration and dedication, we can turn the tide on cataract-related blindness in Africa. Together, we’re not just restoring sight—we’re unlocking potential and transforming lives.”

For millions across the continent, the future looks brighter, thanks to Alcon’s unwavering commitment to advancing eye care in Africa.



 

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