MEAGS VISION
Main Objective
Strengthen ophthalmic training, continuing education, and clinical practice to improve eye care and reduce visual impairment in the region.
MEAGS Approach
Bring together regional expertise and leadership to optimize efforts and maximize impact.
Key Challenges for Glaucoma in Africa
- High prevalence: POAG rates significantly higher in African-derived populations.
- Late diagnosis: a substantial proportion of patients already blind at first presentation.
- Weak health infrastructure: limited functional diagnostic equipment (VF, OCT), poor access in rural areas, weak coordination across care levels.
- Human resource shortages: too few trained glaucoma specialists; variable surgical training.
- Low public awareness: limited knowledge of glaucoma among the population.
- Insufficient epidemiological data: information often fragmented or anecdotal.
- Socioeconomic and political barriers: poverty, cultural and linguistic gaps, instability.
- Limited treatment options: availability and cost issues, poor compliance.
Despite substantial progress over the last few years, service delivery remains lower in Africa than in other regions, and outputs are patchy both between and within countries.
MEAGS MISSION
MEAGS’ core mission is to strengthen capacity and develop glaucoma subspecialty skills across Africa. Its strategy focuses on advocacy and increased recognition at national and international levels; expanding and standardizing educational programs, curricula, and guidelines; and fostering strong collaborations with regional and global eye care organizations. MEAGS also aims to build a comprehensive regional glaucoma database, establish member incentives, launch an indexed scientific journal, and enhance scientific visibility through congresses. In the medium to long term, MEAGS will work with major international stakeholders to implement a realistic, Africa-specific glaucoma plan and toolkit, while securing sustainable financial support for its programs.