The Nurture Nature Foundation (NNF) in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Accra Premier International, has organised a free eye screening exercise for residents of Gamashie and Jamestown in Accra.
The outreach, which took place on Sunday, March 29, 2026, focused on vulnerable groups within the coastal community, particularly fisherfolk, fishmongers and abattoir workers who are regularly exposed to harsh environmental conditions that pose risks to their eye health.
Speaking in an interview, the Executive Director of the Nurture Nature Foundation, Mr Peter Asiedu, explained that the initiative was the first of its kind in the area and was aimed at addressing growing concerns about eye-related conditions among residents.
The exercise
He said the exercise was designed to provide free screening services to people in Jamestown and surrounding communities, many of whom are exposed to heavy smoke from fish smoking and the burning of car tyres at the abattoir. According to him, these conditions pose a significant risk to eyesight if not properly managed.
Mr Asiedu noted that the intervention formed part of a broader effort to promote preventive healthcare, stressing that regular eye examinations were essential for maintaining good vision. He expressed optimism that the exercise would not be a one-off initiative, adding that with the right partnerships and sponsorship, similar health screening programmes could be sustained in the community.
He disclosed that the organisers projected to screen between 70 and 150 residents and was hopeful that the target would be achieved by the end of the exercise.
Informed
For her part, the Club Secretary of the Rotary Club of Accra Premier International, Ms Hema Gavhankar, said the initiative was informed by the challenges many residents face in accessing healthcare services.
She explained that many of the beneficiaries are engaged in daily economic activities and often lack the time or financial resources to seek medical care at health facilities. She said the outreach was therefore designed to bring essential healthcare services closer to them.
Ms Gavhankar indicated that the screening exercise marked the first phase of a broader intervention, adding that follow up support would be provided based on the needs identified during the exercise. She said beneficiaries who require further care may receive assistance in the form of prescription glasses, medication or referrals for specialised treatment.
She also urged the public to prioritise regular eye examinations, particularly for individuals above 30 years, noting that some eye conditions develop gradually without early symptoms. She cautioned that glaucoma remains a major concern in Africa, often progressing unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage, while conditions such as diabetes and hypertension can also have serious effects on vision.
Some beneficiaries who spoke to the media expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the exercise as timely and impactful. They said the screening had helped them better understand their eye health and called for sustained efforts to improve access to healthcare services in underserved communities.
About NNF
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.