Stories of impact
Training Local Experts to Reach Local Children
While a shortage of eye health workers is a challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, many existing professionals simply lack the specialized training needed to serve children with low vision.
Through KCCO’s USAID-supported programme, optometrists like Reginald Vumilia are gaining new skills that are transforming eye care access, starting with their own communities.
Before care
Meet the Patient
Before joining KCCO’s training, Reginald was an optometrist working in Mara Region. Despite his commitment, he lacked the specific knowledge and techniques to examine and treat children.
Many young patients with conditions like congenital cataracts, strabismus, and high refractive error went undiagnosed—some developing amblyopia (lazy eye) due to delayed care.
“There were so many children with eye problems right near the hospital—yet they were never seen.”
The Turning Point
Accessing Treatment
Through KCCO’s USAID-funded childhood blindness project, Reginald attended a specialized course in paediatric refraction and low vision at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College (KCMC).
He was also able to take orthoptics classes alongside MMed students—training not available in his original studies.
The course equipped him to:
- Assess visual acuity in infants
- Perform paediatric refractions
- Fit low vision devices
- Train children in how to use remaining vision and adapt with other senses
Outcome
The Outcome
Now, Reginald can confidently examine children as young as 2 months old and provide accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. His enhanced skills are already being applied in:
- School screening programmes
- Community outreach
- Visually impaired school follow-up visits
“Now I understand why early diagnosis is critical. I can finally help the children I used to turn away.”
He’s not only diagnosing and treating more effectively—he’s also counselling families and improving life skills for children with low vision.
After Care
Ongoing Support
Reginald plans to visit schools for the visually impaired more frequently and ensure children are monitored and supported over time.
His clinic now provides low vision support, referrals, and follow-up—without families needing to travel 12+ hours to other regions.
Implications
Broader Impact
This training is part of KCCO’s wider mission to build local capacity for sustainable eye care across Tanzania and beyond. Thanks to Reginald’s upskilling:
- Children in the Lake Zone now have access to local low vision services
- School screening efforts have uncovered hidden cases of serious eye conditions
- The overall quality of paediatric eye care in the region has improved
A Shared Success
Shared Success
Reginald’s journey reflects the power of training and trust. With new skills and renewed purpose, he’s helping children and adults regain sight—and hope.
“What I can guarantee as my sincere appreciation is to go back home and help the young ones and elderly see.”
— Reginald Vumilia, Optometrist