The partnership between the Clinic of Ophthalmology at the University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) and the University of Rwanda is working toward the establishment of self-sufficient corneal bank in Rwanda.
Problem: In Rwanda, corneal opacities cannot be treated as there is no corneal bank available and willingness to donate remains low. Young patients in working age and children are frequently blinded through corneal diseases. In addition to individual suffering, this also largely impacts socio-economic outcomes.
Main Activities: A goal of this project is to bring awareness to the topic of organ donation in order to establish a corneal bank. Furthermore, necessary medical instruments for the corneal bank have been provided to the partners. Training opportunities also allow for surgical and conservative treatment options and jointly performed corneal transplants.
Short-Term Effects: The prerequisites for the establishment of a self-sufficient corneal bank will be achieved.
Long-Term Effects: The development of a corneal bank and the guarantee of high-quality corneal transplants will improve the care of patients in Rwanda.