Restoring Sight, Renewing Hope: Germany & Catholic Diocese of Wau Launch Eye Care Campaign in South Sudan
WAU, SOUTH SUDAN – A collaborative effort between the German Embassy in South Sudan and the Catholic Diocese of Wau is bringing the gift of sight to thousands, with the launch of an Integrated Eye Care Campaign targeting over 4,200 individuals. The initiative, officially underway at Wau Teaching hospital as of November 4th, aims to perform 1,200 cataract surgeries and provide treatment for over 3,000 people suffering from various eye conditions.
This marks the third consecutive year the German Embassy has provided funding for the crucial campaign,demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving access to essential healthcare within South Sudan. The project also benefits from support from the European Society of Cataract and Refraction Surgeons (ESCRS).
Vision impairment and blindness represent a significant public health crisis in South Sudan, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. these conditions create barriers to education, employment, and overall independence, exacerbating poverty and social exclusion.This campaign directly addresses these challenges through targeted medical outreach, surgical interventions, and long-term advancement assistance.
German Ambassador gregory Bledjian underscored the transformative potential of the initiative, emphasizing the human impact beyond the medical procedures.”Behind each operation, there’s a human story,” he stated. “I believe in an elderly mother who will see her children again, a young man who can work and provide for his family, or maybe a child who will return to school and dream again about the future. these are very simple but powerful miracles that this campaign will make possible.”
The Ambassador reaffirmed Germany’s dedication to community-led development and highlighted the importance of strong partnerships between faith-based organizations, international partners, and the South Sudanese government in achieving equitable and impactful health outcomes.
Tatjana Gerber, Health Advisor for the Catholic Diocese of Wau, echoed this sentiment, describing the campaign as “more than a medical intervention – it’s a catalyst for dignity and development.” she expressed deep gratitude for the continued support from the German Embassy, which allows them to directly confront the public health crisis of blindness and empower communities.
the German Embassy has committed to continuing this vital partnership, pledging further funding for the Eye Care Campaign next year through its Small-Scale Project program. This programme prioritizes locally-led, inclusive, and lasting initiatives that directly address community needs.
This initiative is part of Germany’s broader development cooperation strategy in South Sudan, encompassing support for local governance, rural development, sustainable agriculture, water and sanitation, peacebuilding, gender equality, and the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence.By restoring sight, the campaign promises to unlock potential, rebuild lives, and foster a brighter future for countless South Sudanese citizens.
