By Ibrahim S. Bangura
As blindness continues to rise in Sierra Leone, eye specialists and healthcare providers have highlighted the primary causes contributing to this growing issue. Dr. John Mattia, Medical Director of the UMC Hospital Eye Clinic in Kissy, Freetown, explained that the leading cause of blindness in Sierra Leone is cataracts. “Locally referred to as ‘jegay,’ cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, impairing vision. Awareness and timely intervention are critical to preventing blindness,” he stated.
Significant Causes of Blindness
Dr. Mattia emphasized that eye inflammation is another significant cause of blindness, warning that untreated inflammation can lead to permanent vision loss within months. Glaucoma, caused by increased eye pressure that damages the optic nerve, is also a major contributor. “Glaucoma is called the ‘silent thief of sight’ because it progresses gradually and often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Unlike cataracts, blindness caused by glaucoma is irreversible,” he warned.
Harmful Traditional Remedies
Dr. Mattia expressed concern over the use of harmful traditional remedies in rural areas, where people often apply substances like urine, saltwater, breast milk, or Vaseline to their eyes. “These practices worsen the condition and must stop. Seeking professional care early is essential,” he urged.
Eye Care Challenges
It is estimated that over 40,000 individuals in Sierra Leone are blind, representing roughly 1% of the population. Dr. Mattia revealed that his clinic sees over 20,000 eye patients annually, with the 2024–2025 period recording the highest number of cases to date. “We simply don’t have the manpower. Tackling the existing cases of blindness is a struggle, and new cases only add to the burden,” he explained.
Sierra Leone currently has only six active eye specialists, far below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended minimum of 32 for a population of over eight million. “Eye care is expensive,” Dr. Mattia added. Despite support from NGOs like Sightsavers and Christian Blind Mission, financial constraints often prevent people from accessing care. “Even when patients do come, the workforce is too limited to meet the demand,” he noted.
Contributions from Optometrists
Dr. Willie L. Dinking Koroma, a senior optometrist with the National Eye Health Program at Connaught Eye Clinic in Freetown, reiterated that cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness. He highlighted other factors, such as prolonged use of steroids, untreated diabetes, occupational hazards, and environmental conditions, that contribute to the rising cases of blindness. Dr. Koroma urged regular eye checkups for early detection and cautioned against the misuse of eye medication.
Stories from the Blind Community
Alimamy Lahai Mansaray, Acting Head Teacher of the School for the Blind in Kabala, Koinadugu District, echoed similar concerns. He attributed common causes of blindness in Koinadugu to measles, STDs, STIs, and malaria. Improved medical supplies and increased numbers of eye specialists could help reduce blindness in the country.
Racheal Conteh, a pupil at the Kabala School for the Blind, shared her story of losing her sight at the age of one due to measles. Similarly, Morie S. Kamara, the head boy of the school, recounted losing his sight at five months old. Both emphasized the need for greater attention to preventing childhood blindness and urged the government to invest more in the medical sector.
Calls for Support and Action
Salieu Turay, Headmaster of the Milton Margai School for the Blind, highlighted the increasing number of blind children enrolling at the school, with enrollment reaching 93 students in 2024—the highest in the school’s history. While charitable organizations have supported the school, significant challenges remain.
All stakeholders called on the government, parents, caregivers, and others to provide additional funding, infrastructure, and resources. They emphasized the economic, social, and educational losses caused by blindness and recommended awareness campaigns, early detection, and expanded access to eye care services. “Parents must take children with cataracts to eye clinics immediately,” they urged, commending the government for increasing access to eye care at hospitals nationwide.
The economic and social consequences of blindness are profound, affecting individuals, families, and the nation as a whole. Raising awareness about preventable causes, promoting early detection, and ensuring access to treatment are crucial steps. “If you experience cloudy vision, eye pain, or gradual vision loss, seek medical attention immediately,” advised the specialists.