Residents of Gamashie and Jamestown in Accra have benefitted from a free eye screening exercise organised by the Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Accra Premier International.
The outreach, held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, targeted vulnerable groups within the coastal community, particularly fisherfolk, fishmongers and workers at the nearby abattoir, many of whom are exposed to harsh environmental conditions that pose risks to eye health.
Speaking in an interview, the Executive Director of NNF, Mr Peter Asiedu, explained that the initiative was the first of its kind in the area and aimed at addressing growing concerns about eye-related conditions among residents.
“We are here today to provide free eye screening for the people of Jamestown and its environs. Many of them are exposed to heavy smoke from fish smoking and the burning of car tyres at the abattoir, which can significantly affect their eyesight,” he said.
Mr Asiedu noted that the exercise formed part of a broader effort to promote preventive healthcare, stressing that regular eye check-ups were essential for maintaining good vision. “The eye is the centre of attraction of the body, and once it is well taken care of, the entire body benefits. This is not going to be a one-time activity. With the right partnerships and sponsorship, we hope to sustain regular health screening programmes for the community,” he added.
He disclosed that the organisers projected to screen between 70 and 150 residents, expressing optimism that the maximum target would be achieved by the close of the exercise.
For her part, the Club Secretary of the Rotary Club of Accra Premier International, Hema Gavhankar, said the intervention was necessitated by the difficulty many residents face in accessing healthcare services.
“Most of these individuals are busy working daily to earn a living and may not have the time or financial resources to visit hospitals. We therefore decided to bring these essential services to their doorstep,” she said.
Gavhankar emphasised that the screening was only the first phase of the intervention, indicating that follow-up support would be provided based on identified needs.
“After the screening, we will assess their conditions and possibly assist with prescription glasses, eye drops or further medical care where necessary,” she explained.
She also used the opportunity to educate the public on the importance of regular eye examinations, particularly for individuals above 30 years.
“In Africa, glaucoma is a slow-progressing disease that often goes unnoticed until it is advanced. People above 30 or 35 years should have their eyes checked at least once a year. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can also affect vision, so regular check-ups are crucial,” she advised.
Many beneficiaries who spoke to the media expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the exercise as timely and impactful.
They noted that the free and thorough screening had given them a better understanding of their eye health and urged stakeholders to sustain such initiatives to improve healthcare access in underserved communities.
About Nurture Nature Foundation
The Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) is a Ghana-based non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and improving the well-being of communities through responsible and innovative practices. The Foundation focuses on empowering individuals, particularly at the grassroots level, to actively participate in protecting natural resources while also enhancing their livelihoods.
Guided by a vision of a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future, the organization works across both the “green” and “blue” economy, implementing initiatives in areas such as sustainable agriculture, coastal and marine conservation, waste management, and ecosystem restoration. Its interventions are designed not only to address environmental degradation but also to create economic opportunities and strengthen community resilience.
Through advocacy, public education, and strategic partnerships with government agencies, private institutions, and local communities, the Foundation champions responsible environmental practices, including waste segregation, pollution reduction, and biodiversity protection. It has also played an active role in national conversations on environmental policy and sustainability, contributing to efforts aimed at safeguarding Ghana’s ecosystems and promoting long-term development.
Rooted in community engagement and sustainability, the Nurture Nature Foundation continues to serve as a platform for collective action, encouraging citizens and stakeholders alike to take responsibility for preserving the environment while building a more resilient and prosperous society.
About Rotary Club
The Rotary Club of Accra Premier International is a service-driven organization made up of professionals and community-minded individuals committed to improving lives and creating lasting social impact. As part of the global network of Rotary International, the club operates under the guiding principle of “Service Above Self,” bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to address pressing challenges within their communities.
The club focuses on initiatives that promote health, education, environmental sustainability, and youth development, often organizing outreach programmes such as medical screenings, educational support projects, and community welfare interventions. Through collaboration, volunteerism, and strategic partnerships, it contributes to efforts aimed at improving living conditions and expanding opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Rooted in a tradition of service and leadership, the Rotary Club of Accra Premier International provides a platform for individuals to network, share ideas, and work collectively toward meaningful change. Its activities align with Rotary’s broader mission of fostering peace, supporting communities, and advancing human dignity both locally and globally.
By Kingsley Asiedu