In August 2021, the first shelter in the Bechar Wilaya was inaugurated, exclusively for people with ophthalmologic pathologies derived from the Sahrawi refugee population camps. In May of this year, a further step was taken, facilitating its transport. And in November, a follow-up visit was carried out to verify the management and satisfaction of the people served.
The head of the ophthalmology department of the camps, the coordinator of Eyes of the world, and the project administrator participated in the visit. During the visit, the day-to-day running of the house and its management were verified. Many people who require eye care pass through it. In November alone, 143 patients and 102 accompanying persons arrived, and while staying at the house, they were cared for by the staff in charge. Eyes of the world also takes care of maintenance and all expenses for rent, supplies, food, staff, etc., and participates in referrals and follow-ups for patients.
In addition to coordinating meetings with the house staff, the hospital center where Sahrawi people with ophthalmologic pathologies are treated was also visited. The meeting served to get to know the facilities and the Algerian and Cuban personnel who work at the hospital and, above all, to assess new lines of collaboration between the center and Eyes of the world.
This Eyes of the Sahara project is financed by the AECID (Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation).
