Uniting to Improve Childhood Eye Health in Ghana
KnowTheGlow and Vision Action are joining forces to expand early childhood eye health awareness and improve access to vital eye care services across Ghana.Together, the organisations are focused on a shared mission: improving early detection of eye conditions in children and ensuring those in underserved communities receive the care they need.
Vision Action’s team is actively strengthening primary eye care by working to embed eye health services within the national health system. This includes training teachers to spot early signs of eye conditions in schools and equipping community health workers with the tools and knowledge to identify and manage common issues, using globally recognised resources like the WHO Primary Eye Care Training Manual.
A key area of focus is Ghana’s Upper East Region, where Vision Action is currently delivering programmes in 11 out of 15 districts. Their approach blends awareness-building with practical action, screening children in schools, supporting families with treatment options, and delivering surgeries in partnership with organisations such as Cure Blindness and Operation Eyesight Universal.
However, awareness is just the beginning; addressing barriers to treatment, like affordability and accessibility is critical. For many families, the cost of something as simple as a pair of glasses can be out of reach. That’s why both organisations are committed to strengthening referral systems and support pathways that guide children from diagnosis to care.
KnowTheGlow is contributing adaptable, culturally relevant awareness materials that can support Vision Action’s existing community training programmes. These resources are designed to make early signs of eye disease easier to understand and recognise, particularly among parents, teachers,and health workers.
Both organisations also recognise the power of storytelling in driving change. KnowTheGlow’s global awareness campaigns leverage social media to share real stories from families impacted by childhood vision conditions, stories that inspire communities and spark early action.
Looking ahead, the collaboration is set to grow. A new digital awareness campaign will launch in Ghana from 15 May to 15 July 2025, aiming to reach even more families with key messages about the importance of early detection and accessible treatment.
This partnership represents a powerful step forward in tackling preventable childhood blindness in Ghana, built on shared values, mutual learning, and a vision of a future where no child is left in the dark.
Megan Webber, Co-Founder of KnowTheGlow, said:
“We believe awareness is the first and most powerful step in preventing childhood blindness. Collaborating with Vision Action allows us to share proven tools and stories that resonate with families and health workers alike, helping more children get the care they need, when they need it most.”
Robert Alibo, Vision Action’s Country Director in Ghana, said:
“Building sustainable eye health systems starts at the community level. Our work is about more than just services, it’s about empowering teachers, parents, and health workers to be the first line of defence in protecting children’s sight. Partnering with KnowTheGlow strengthens this mission with valuable, locally adaptable resources.
