In a significant step toward addressing preventable childhood blindness, KnowTheGlow recently engaged with Ghana’s National Eye Care Unit. Megan Webber, Co-Founder of KTG and Ruth Ngaruiya, KTG’s Africa Programs Manager, connected with Dr. Hornametor Afake, Head of the National Eye Care Unit, to discuss shared concerns around conditions such as retinoblastoma (Rb) and the more than 20 pediatric blinding eye conditions which can present with a common but often overlooked symptom: a distinct “glow” in flash photos of a child’s eye.
Dr. Hornametor provided an encouraging overview of Ghana’s progress in pediatric eye care, particularly in the early detection and treatment of Rb. He highlighted the vital support of partners such as World Child Cancer (WCC) and Rotary International in training healthcare workers and promoting public awareness. Through the National Eye Care Unit, he emphasized the importance of equipping frontline personnel—such as ophthalmic nurses and optometrists – with diagnostic tools like the Arclight, a portable and cost-effective ophthalmoscope that enables screenings even in the most remote areas.
He described key initiatives currently underway, including the development of a national retinoblastoma action plan and a broader national eye health policy. Last year , over 200 primary health workers in northern Ghana were trained to recognize early warning signs of pediatric eye disease.
Echoing the vital role of early detection, Ruth Ngaruiya emphasized the power of awareness in transforming outcomes. She shared that KnowTheGlow has developed culturally tailored educational materials to equip caregivers and frontline workers with the knowledge to spot signs of concern. These resources have already been translated into Twi, with plans to expand into other Ghanaian languages ensuring that families across the country have access to life-saving information in a language they understand.
When asked about his journey into eye care, Dr. Hornametor shared that his passion began far from policy or administration. With no medical background in his family, his interest emerged during medical school. “I just developed this strong interest in eyes—how they work, how to heal them,” he recalled. Prior to moving to the Ghana Health Service headquarters,he served as Regional Ophthalmologist and Program Director for the Bawku Eye Care Program—a CBM International-supported initiative delivering critical care to underserved northern communities.
“In the Upper East Region, I saw children who had traveled for days to reach us, their tumors already advanced,” he said. That experience solidified his belief in the importance of awareness and early diagnosis. After moving to Tema General Hospital in Accra, he was appointed by the Director-General of Ghana Health Service, following the recommendation by the Ophthalmological Society of Ghana, to lead the National Eye Care Unit. “Leadership isn’t just about operations—it’s about creating policies that protect vision nationwide,” he explained. Despite his administrative responsibilities, he continues to perform surgeries to restore sight,especially to the adults. “Every surgery reminds me of the need for awareness creation about avoidable blindness prevention and management.”
The conversation reflected a shared commitment to improving pediatric eye health through awareness, early detection, and systemic change. “Every child matters. Early detection saves sight and lives,” Dr. Hornametor emphasized. Megan echoed this message, describing KnowTheGlow as a connector—bringing together families, healthcare providers, and advocates around a common goal.
As KnowTheGlow prepares to launch its Ghana-focused outreach in mid-May, these ongoing engagements highlight the importance of linking global advocacy to national action. With dedicated individuals and evidence-based strategies in motion, the vision of ending preventable childhood blindness in Ghana and globally—is coming into sharper focus.
