A new Pediatric Eye Care Centre, inaugurated at Alert Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, promises to revolutionize children's eye care in Ethiopia, offering hope and treatment for easily manageable eye conditions that often lead to preventable blindness.

The facility prioritizes early detection and treatment of pediatric eye diseases, aiming to significantly reduce the number of children who suffer vision loss due to conditions that are treatable with timely medical intervention.

Dr. Mekdes Daba, the FDRE Minister of Health, lauded the center as a vital resource not only for treating childhood blindness and other eye health issues but also for fostering hope for the future.

She emphasized that investing in children's health is paramount to building a strong foundation for the next generation.

"Protecting children's health is laying the foundation for the future generation. This center will play a major role in treating easily treatable eye diseases in children,” Dr. Mekdes stated during the inauguration ceremony.

The Minister expressed confidence that the new center will mark a turning point in pediatric eye care in Ethiopia.

“We believe that it will be a great step towards changing pediatric eye care in Ethiopia, and that it will help no child lose their sight due to preventable causes," she asserted.

This commitment underscores the Ministry's dedication to improving child health outcomes nationwide.

On the occasion, Dr. Shimelis Gezahegn, Manager of Alert Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, echoed the Minister's sentiments, envisioning the hospital as a beacon of hope for the future. He pledged to provide high-quality pediatric eye care services that will transform the lives of countless children and families.

The new Pediatric Eye Care Centre represents a significant investment in Ethiopia's healthcare infrastructure. By focusing on early intervention and treatment, the center aims to prevent avoidable blindness and empower children to reach their full potential, ensuring a brighter future for the nation. The establishment of this specialized facility is a crucial step towards achieving equitable access to quality eye care for all Ethiopian children, it was learned.