After the inauguration of the first shelter in the wilaya of Bechar in August 2021, which is intended solely for people with ophthalmologic pathologies derived from the refugee population camps, in May, a step further was taken in facilitating their transportation. Eyes of the world has agreed with the Tindouf bus company to organize groups and transport patients free of charge; Bechar is 800 km away. So far, two trips have been made, and 80 people have benefited from this new service.
The goal of the shelter was to be able to care for around 15/20 people each month, but this forecast has been far exceeded, and since January, 349 people have received care (187 women, 162 men), of which 74 women and 61 men have undergone eye surgery.
In addition to facilitating travel, Eyes of the world is also in charge of maintaining the house and all expenses for rent, supplies, food, staff, etc., and participates in the process of referral and follow-up for patients.
Another piece of good news that allows eye care to be brought closer to the most vulnerable populations has been the start-up of the ophthalmology clinic at the new Bojador regional hospital. The Foundation has overseen providing all equipment (slit lamp, projector, box, test glasses, registers, consumables, presbyopia, furniture, cleaning materials, etc.), and providing support to people who will offer eye care to the Sahrawi refugee population.
The Eyes of the Sahara project is financed by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID)
