OUR APPROACH
Treating people with trachoma is relatively inexpensive and simple. However, eliminating blinding trachoma requires behaviour change in sanitation and hygiene.
To achieve this, The Foundation, together with the Oromia Regional Health Bureau and other partners, is coordinating the roll out of the World Health Organization endorsed SAFE Strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, Environmental improvement), which is designed to treat the disease, stem its spread and prevent it from recurring.
Successful implementation of this strategy requires the expertise, commitment and resources of a range of stakeholders, including development organisations from the water, sanitation and hygiene sector, as well as regional and local governments. An action plan is in place to guide and coordinate these organisations. Our contribution includes increasing the distribution of antibiotics in endemic districts and stepping up the number of surgeries carried out on people with advanced scarring of the eyelid. We also promote face washing and help improve access to safe water and latrines.
Some of our key implementing partners in this program include the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), the Oromia Regional Health Bureau, the Oromia Regional Education Bureau, the International Trachoma Initiative, Orbis International, Sight Savers International and RTI International.
