The partnership between the LMU Department of Ophthalmology in Munich and the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Nairobi aims to improve ophthalmology care available to the Kenyan people.
Problem: In many parts of Kenya, particularly in rural areas, the lack of ophthalmologists means that the people have no access to ophthalmology services. As a result, avoidable eye conditions such as cataracts and trachoma are frequent causes of blindness in Kenya.
Main activities: Within the scope of the hospital partnership, two advanced training courses are planned for junior hospital doctors in Nairobi. Instruction will be practical, and involve patients. Specialist knowledge and surgical techniques are to be conveyed at joint out-patient clinics and in the operating theatre.
Short-term results: The project is to train specialist ophthalmologists at the University of Nairobi.
Long-term results: In line with the ‘train the trainer’ approach, ophthalmologists are to be trained, who will subsequently act as multipliers, thus helping ensure better care for the population in this branch of medicine.