Post by : Shakul

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has introduced a comprehensive humanitarian campaign aimed at eradicating river blindness and enhancing the quality of life for millions impacted by this condition. Launched in Dubai, the initiative, overseen by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, will be executed in collaboration with Noor Dubai. Officials estimate that around seven million individuals will directly benefit, while over 35 million will be indirectly supported over the next three years.

The launch took place during a distinguished event attended by key figures from Dubai’s ruling family and high-ranking government officials, including Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, and Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Maktoum. Numerous healthcare and humanitarian leaders were also present, underscoring the UAE's commitment to global health and humanitarian aid.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasized that humanitarian endeavors are core values of the UAE, asserting that restoring health and dignity is a shared global duty. He noted that combating blindness also means addressing suffering, disability, and poverty. The UAE will persist in launching initiatives that uplift lives and support vulnerable populations globally.

River blindness, or onchocerciasis, is a grave disease affecting the eyes and skin, caused by parasitic worms transmitted through infected blackflies. If untreated, it can lead to intense itching, skin damage, visual impairment, and permanent blindness. Early childhood infections may also result in neurological complications such as epilepsy. Predominantly found in parts of Africa, as well as certain regions of Latin America and Asia, this disease poses a significant public health challenge.

Through this new initiative, Noor Dubai will oversee extensive distribution programs for both preventive and therapeutic measures. The organization will conduct community health assessments and educate local health personnel to spot early signs of the disease. The initiative aligns with the global objective of eradicating river blindness by 2030, in accordance with the World Health Organization’s roadmap for dealing with neglected tropical diseases.

In recent years, the UAE has significantly contributed to raising awareness about neglected tropical ailments. The country’s efforts led to the formal recognition of World Neglected Tropical Disease Day, celebrated annually on January 30, by the World Health Organization in 2021. The UAE has consistently invested in international health through humanitarian entities and global collaborations.

Established in 2015, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives organization currently manages over 30 humanitarian and development projects spanning various sectors, including healthcare, education, innovation, and disaster relief. Since its inception, the organization has disbursed billions of dirhams in humanitarian aid, reaching hundreds of millions globally. Noor Dubai alone has assisted over 33 million individuals across Asia and Africa through initiatives focused on preventing blindness, treatment options, awareness initiatives, and mobile healthcare services.

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