Sheikh Mohammed Launches Global Initiative to Combat River Blindness

May 10, 2026

49 min

May 10, 2026 09:30

Mohammed bin Rashid launches initiative to help 7 million fight blindness

## New Humanitarian Effort

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has introduced a global initiative to tackle river blindness. This effort aims to aid seven million people over the next three years.

## Implementation by Noor Dubai Foundation

The initiative will be carried out by the Noor Dubai Foundation and is part of the broader Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. The focus is on combating river blindness, a disease caused by parasitic infection from blackfly bites.

## Impact on Vulnerable Communities

River blindness predominantly affects communities near rivers in Africa and other tropical areas. Limited healthcare access in these regions exacerbates the disease's impact, making this initiative crucial for improving lives.

## A Vision for Hope

Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of restoring sight, describing it as a mission to empower individuals by lifting them from darkness. Each restored eye represents renewed hope and a chance to experience the world's beauty.

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