A groundbreaking ceremony has been held for the new Centre for Eye Health in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, a key development aimed at addressing the country’s high rates of avoidable blindness and vision impairment.
Dr. Audrey Aumua, CEO of the Fred Hollows Foundation NZ, emphasized the critical need for improved eye care in the country. “With one of the highest rates of avoidable blindness and vision impairment, and some of the most challenging development indicators in the world, it is vital that investment in PNG’s health system is significantly increased,” Aumua stated. She also noted that recent research has highlighted the urgent need for expanded eye care services in PNG.
Statistics from the Fred Hollows Foundation reveal that 5.6% of the population over the age of 50 in PNG is living with blindness, while an additional 21.1% experience vision impairment. The Foundation attributes 90% of this blindness to cataracts, which are preventable and treatable.
Site preparation for the Centre is set to begin this month, with construction expected to continue through May 2026. The Centre will offer a range of services, including Papua New Guinea’s first dedicated diabetic retinopathy clinic and pediatric ophthalmology services. Additionally, the facility will focus on expanding training for local eye health professionals.
Professor Nakapi Tefuarani, Executive Dean of the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Medical and Health Sciences, highlighted the disparity in eye care services. Despite the overwhelming need, only 7 of the country’s 22 provinces currently have a resident eye doctor. “Training local eye care specialists who will deliver services in their own communities is the best way to secure long-term improvements in eye health,” said Tefuarani. The country’s goal is to ensure each province has at least one eye doctor and a team of eye nurses.
The project has received significant funding support, including $3.1 million from the Australian government, $18.9 million from the New Zealand government, and $5.5 million from Latter-day Saints Charities. The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ has also committed approximately $8.5 million to the initiative.
PNG’s Health Minister Elias Kapavore described the Centre as an important investment in the nation’s future, underscoring the long-term benefits of improved eye health services for the country’s population.
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