Ensuring Girls in Ethiopia Receive Basic Eye Care

Close to two-thirds of the world's blind are women.

Unfortunately, in parts of the world where the need is greatest, women do not have access to the quality eye care they so desperately need. It is essential that we reach vulnerable women and girls before it's too late.  

Nejaiba and Ajaiba are twelve-year-old identical twin sisters who live in a rural Ethiopian village. Four years ago, Nejaiba and Ajaiba started school. However, Ajaiba started to struggle to read from the blackboard. Ajaiba's parents thought her reduced vision could be rectified by traditional medicine. She continued to suffer for four whole years. 

Because of her sight difficulties, Ajaiba sadly did not make it to 2nd grade; she stayed at home instead of going to class and watched as her twin sister set off for school each day. 

Through a school screening day organised by an Orbis trained teacher, Ajaiba was found to be suffering from extreme short-sightedness. The teacher, with the support of an ophthalmic nurse at the local Health Centre, examined both sisters and discovered that her sister Nejaiba was also struggling with her sight too.  

Now, Ajaiba has resumed her classes from the 2nd grade while her sister continues in fourth grade. 

Thanks to your generous support, Orbis can continue to help girls like Ajaiba and Nejaiba. They do not have to needlessly struggle with visual impairment and can continue their education, which is something every child deserves.

Thank you