Gov’t committed to improved eye health and preventing blindness across the country—Deputy Health Minister

The Deputy Minister for Health, Prof. Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving eye health and preventing avoidable blindness across the country.

She said this when she welcomed the Orbis International Flying Eye Hospital to Ghana.

Speaking at the welcoming ceremony in Accra, the Deputy Minister for Health described the visit as a testament to innovation, compassion, and global partnership in healthcare.

She noted that the long-standing partnership between the Ministry and Orbis has provided specialised training for eye health professionals, improved clinical capacity, and delivered sight-saving treatment to thousands of Ghanaians.

She added that the Flying Eye Hospital offers a unique opportunity for knowledge exchange that would leave a lasting impact on the country’s health system.

Prof. Ayensu-Danquah highlighted Ghana’s progress in eliminating trachoma, upgrading infrastructure, and expanding access to eye care, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges of cataracts, glaucoma, and uncorrected refractive errors.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these issues through key policy frameworks, including the National Health Policy (2020), the Universal Health Coverage Roadmap (2020–2030), and the forthcoming National Eye Health Policy.

She expressed appreciation to Orbis International and its team of volunteer doctors, nurses, and biomedical engineers for their continued collaboration with the Ministry of Health in advancing eye care in Ghana.

The state-of-the-art aircraft, which serves as both a mobile training and surgical centre, is set to enhance the skills of local professionals and strengthen eye care delivery across the country.

The visit is part of efforts to strengthen eye care delivery nationwide and build the capacity of local health professionals.

Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD