Blindness and sight loss in Rwanda can be preventable, but still an issue, with glaucoma identified as one of the leading causes. Experts point the problem to an aging population, changing lifestyles, and limited access to eye care.

A 2015 study by the Ministry of Health revealed that glaucoma is the third leading cause of blindness in the country, particularly among those aged 40 and above. While efforts are underway to raise awareness and enhance eye care services, experts warn that without timely action, the problem may worsen.

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time to draw attention to one of the world’s most pressing vision health challenges. Glaucoma, the second leading cause of vision loss and blindness globally after cataracts, is often referred to as the "silent thief of vision” because its effects are irreversible and progress unnoticed until advanced stages.

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In Rwanda, glaucoma poses a public health issue, in an interview with The New Times, Innocent Habimana, the Eye Health Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator at the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), offered a detailed perspective on the country’s ongoing efforts to fight this condition.

Strengthening eye care training

While Rwanda does not host specific national events for glaucoma in January, the country is committed to enhancing eye care through the training of health practitioners.

"We focus on improving the knowledge, skills, and tools available to eye health providers,” Habimana noted.

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Since 2019, continuous medical education programmes for clinical officers in hospitals have targeted the diagnosis and management of conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts.

These efforts are yielding results, he added.

"By equipping graduates with advanced skills, we have reduced misdiagnoses and improved patient outcomes,” he added.

Glaucoma’s prevalence in Rwanda

Glaucoma is among the leading causes of blindness in Rwanda, following untreated cataracts (one of the most common causes of vision loss and blindness) and uncorrected refractive errors (vision impairments that occur when the eye is unable to focus on images clearly).

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A 2015 study conducted every 10 years by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the Fred Hollows Foundation revealed that glaucoma is particularly common among individuals over 40.

The study, part of the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness, ranked glaucoma third after cataracts and refractive errors. While congenital cases are rare, they do occur, Habimana noted.

He stressed that a new nationwide assessment planned for 2025 will update the status of blinding conditions. Regular screenings, especially for those over 40, are strongly encouraged to enable early intervention and better management outcomes.

Accessible screening and treatment services

"Screening and treatment for glaucoma are available at all hospitals in Rwanda, though advanced surgical procedures are limited to facilities with permanent ophthalmologists.

Major hospitals offering these services include Kibagabaga, Rwamagana, Ruhengeri, Kabgayi Eye Unit, and Rwanda Military Hospital,” he said.

Habimana added that Community-Based Health Insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) supports screening and treatment, improving access. However, he stressed workforce challenges as Rwanda currently has 32 ophthalmologists, with many based in private facilities.

Tackling equipment and workforce gaps

"Advanced diagnostic equipment is essential for managing glaucoma effectively. While most hospitals in Rwanda have machines known as applanation tonometers to measure eye pressure, there is still a need for more cutting-edge equipment and additional skilled ophthalmologists to improve care,” he added.

Habimana noted that to address workforce shortages, the government has prioritized training programmes and strategies to attract specialists to public hospitals. The National Outreach Programme also ensures that permanent ophthalmologists provide services in underserved areas.

Advancing eye care through technology

Rwanda is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into eye care to expand diagnostic capabilities. AI-powered machines, capable of detecting conditions like glaucoma, are set to be deployed in every province as part of a broader initiative led by the non-communicable diseases division, Habimana explained.

"Community awareness is central to combating glaucoma and other eye conditions, which is why we aim to launch annual national awareness campaigns by mid-this year, these campaigns will educate the public on the importance of regular eye screenings,” he said.

Habimana added that the Ministry of Health is also enhancing the role of community health workers. A new cohort is being trained to support disease prevention and management, improving public understanding and access to care.

Overcoming challenges through partnerships

Rwanda has partnered with organizations such as the Fred Hollows Foundation, OneSight Foundation, and Christian Blind Mission (CBM). Despite these collaborations, funding remains a challenge.

Habimana expressed confidence that increased investments and partnerships will further improve eye care services, adding that the government is committed to supporting primary eye care, increasing the number of ophthalmologists, and ensuring that preventable or manageable conditions do not result in preventable sight loss.

More about glaucoma

Over 2.2 billion people globally suffer from vision impairment, with at least one billion cases preventable, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve and often show no early symptoms, making it undetected in 50% of cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that those at higher risk include those over 40 and people with a family history of glaucoma or diabetes. Early detection through regular eye exams is crucial, as treatments like eye drops, oral medication, and surgery can prevent vision loss. "If caught early, you can preserve your vision and prevent vision loss,” says the CDC.