News / Childhood Eye Health Support

The Organization for Strategic Health Interventions (OSHI) is pleased to share an important update as we continue our efforts to prevent and control childhood blindness in Tanzania.

Building on a Successful Foundation OSHI recently completed the initial phase of its childhood eye health project in Tunduma Town Council, Songwe Region, with generous support from the Ulverscroft Foundation (£15,000) and earlier funding from the Seva Foundation (USD 10,000). Through this support, we worked closely with local health authorities and communities to identify children with visual impairments, strengthen referral systems, and facilitate timely treatment. The results have been transformative, helping restore sight and improve the quality of life for many children.

Launch of Phase II (April 2026 – April 2027) We are excited to announce that Seva Foundation has provided new funding of USD 13,000 to support the second phase of the project (April 2026 – April 2027). This new phase will build on the success of the pilot by expanding interventions beyond Tunduma to reach more districts across Songwe Region. The focus will be on:

1. Scaling up early detection of childhood eye conditions

2. Strengthening the capacity of health workers through training and mentorship

3. Expanding community awareness and engagement

4. Increasing access to essential treatment services, including surgeries and visual aids

Appreciation to Our Partners We extend our sincere gratitude to the Ulverscroft Foundation for their foundational support during the first phase of the project, and to the Seva Foundation for their continued commitment to advancing child eye health in Tanzania.

Looking Ahead With this continued partnership, OSHI remains committed to ensuring that no child is left behind due to preventable or treatable eye conditions. We look forward to sharing more updates as Phase II progresses and as we expand our impact across the region.