Africa-Press – Ethiopia. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to eye care, designating it a national health priority.
During the inaugural ceremony of Ethiopia’s first Pediatric Eye Care Unit at Alert Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Dr. Mekdes Daba emphasized that the 12th Congress of the College of Ophthalmology of Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa (COECSA) is held in Addis Ababa from August 20-22, 2025.
Jointly organized by the Ministry of Health and the Ophthalmological Society of Ethiopia (OSE), the congress is being held from August 20 to 22 in Addis Ababa under the theme “Advancing Tertiary Eye Care Services in the COECSA Region: The Time Is Now.”
It aims to address critical gaps in regional eye care and strengthen cross-border collaboration.
“We are committed to expanding eye health services across the country, focusing on early prevention and timely treatment,” the minister said, emphasizing the government’s efforts in awareness campaigns, particularly targeting children as part of a long-term public health strategy.
According to the minister, the ministry continues to work with both national and international partners to expand access to eye care. Notable achievements include more than 124,000 trachoma surgeries performed in 2017 Ethiopian year alone.
Volunteers also play a critical role in supporting service delivery and awareness across all levels of care, from nurseries to teaching hospitals, she added.
The event has drawn over 700 ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from more than 40 countries, with over 30 exhibitors showcasing the latest advancements in ophthalmic technology and delegates from countries including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi, South Sudan, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Mozambique are in attendance, ENA learnt.
Over five million Ethiopians currently receive care for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, both of which pose serious risks to eye health, Dr. Mekdes noted, adding that eyeglasses are distributed to children, adults, and the elderly with vision impairments.
“Ethiopia’s experience in expanding eye care services provides valuable lessons for the continent and beyond. These experiences will be shared at the congress to encourage knowledge exchange and partnerships,” she stated.
Founded in 1995 with 245 members, the Ophthalmological Society of Ethiopia works closely with COECSA, a regional body formed in 2012 to address the shortage of skilled eye care professionals across its 12 member countries.
By hosting the COECSA Congress for the second time since 2018, Ethiopia reinforces its leadership in regional eye health, supports innovation and professional development, and contributes to the local economy through tourism and related sectors.
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