Our Work

River blindness is one of the main causes of visual impairments in Benin. Sightsavers are combating the disease by supporting the distribution of the drug Mectizan©.  © Suzanne Porter / Sightsavers

River blindness is one of the main causes of visual impairments in Benin. Sightsavers are combating the disease by supporting the distribution of the drug Mectizan©. © Suzanne Porter / Sightsavers

Benin

Benin has a population of 9.1million people, and consists of a narrow strip of land that extends north from the Gulf of Guinea. Despite being one of Africa's most stable democracies, with a number of political parties and strong civil societies, Benin remains one of the poorest countries in the world.

Sightsavers in Benin

Benin is the latest addition to the West African countries in which Sightsavers works. The Ministry of Health of Benin approached Sightsavers asking for our support to control river blindness in the country. It is estimated that some 3.5 million people living in 3,500 villages and hamlets are at risk from the disease. We are supporting river blindness work in the country, and aim to support a full comprehensive eye services programme in the future.


Caroline Harper visits Benin