The WILDE GANZEN Low Vision Project was implemented in Mzuzu by Bantyre Institute for Community Outreach (BICO) as an expansion of the Child Blindness Project. The original Child Blindness Project was implemented by BICO in 2019 with support from the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and was successfully completed in 2021.
Building on this foundation, the Fight for Sight WILDE GANZEN Low Vision Project extended these efforts to serve both children and adults in Mzuzu. The project was implemented by BICO over a three-year period from 2022 to 2024, focusing on improving access to low vision services, increasing awareness, and strengthening local capacity.
During the implementation period, BICO carried out several key activities under the WILDE GANZEN Low Vision Project. These included exchange visits by partners from the Netherlands, as well as online capacity-building sessions led by a global low vision trainer. BICO also facilitated advocacy meetings with key stakeholders, including Association of people with albinism in Malawi (APAM), media institutions, and government representatives, to raise awareness about low vision and eye health services.
In addition, BICO conducted school screening programs in both resource centres and mainstream schools across Mzuzu to identify children with visual impairments. A paediatric eye care camp was also organized, where children with operable conditions such as cataracts and squints received surgical treatment.
As a result of the WILDE GANZEN Low Vision Project implemented by BICO, a total of 272 people received eyeglasses, while 35 individuals were supported with low vision devices, significantly improving their quality of life and access to education and daily activities.
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