Malawi’s leading eye health experts have raised serious concerns over the increasing number of cases of preventable blindness, warning that many people are turning to unqualified practitioners and unsafe remedies.
Speaking during the 25th Annual General Meeting of the Malawi Optometry Association, Compliance Officer at the Medical Council of Malawi, Mwachumu Chipala, emphasised the urgent need for the public to seek treatment only from trained professionals.
“One of the biggest challenges we are facing is that people are presenting their eye conditions to individuals who have no formal training,” said Chipala.
“In some cases, people are even resorting to applying unknown substances into their eyes, particularly during outbreaks such as the recent pink eye. These practices are extremely dangerous. The eye is one of the most delicate organs, and once damaged, there is no replacement,” warned Chipala.
He further reminded practitioners about the importance of registration, annual renewal, and adherence to the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act of Malawi, as well as following professional codes of conduct.
Adding to the discussion, the Organising Chairperson of the Malawi Optometry Association, Cassim Adams, pointed out another critical gap in eye care services such as the lack of provision for contact lenses in hospitals.
“We appreciate the government’s efforts in providing eye care at central, district, and community levels,” said Adams.
“However, most support from our partners focuses on surgical eye camps, cataract operations, and distribution or sale of eyeglasses. One essential area that is being neglected is contact lenses,” added Adams
Adams, who is also an optometrist at Mzimba South Hospital, explained that contact lenses do not only enhance vision like traditional eyeglasses but also play a vital role in the healing process for patients with eye injuries.
“For eye injuries, you cannot simply cover the area with a bandage or gauze. Special therapeutic lenses, known as bandage contact lenses, are required. These protect the injured eye while medication is applied, serving both to improve vision and aid recovery,” he said.
The association has called on the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to integrate contact lens services into Malawi’s public health system to improve outcomes for patients with a variety of eye conditions.
The meeting, attended by various eye health stakeholders, emphasised the need for continued education of both practitioners and the public to safeguard eye health in Malawi.
During the gathering, the Malawi Optometry Association also announced the selected members of its 2025 Board. The Board will comprise Cassim Adams, George Moyo, Samson Jumah, Thandi Munthali Kaluwa, and Ellen Kamchira, all of whom were recognised for their commitment to advancing eye care services in Malawi.
Additionally, a new National Executive Committee was elected to steer the association forward. Selah Mwalweni Tchale was elected President, with Edson Dopola as Vice President. The executive team also includes Ali Winnes (Secretary), Tryness Malinga (Vice Secretary), Emanuel Kanyika (Treasurer), and Chikondi Dennis (Vice Treasurer). Philip Nyambalo will serve as Publication Director, while Moses Nkhoma takes up the role of Membership Director. Committee Members elected are Esther Solomon, Titan Nyasulu, Levison Thom, and Sala Mkuliwa.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
