Noor Dubai, the foundation set up by the Sheikh of Dubai to fight blindness, has reached a milestone. 
It has treated its half a million people who were losing their sight, six months after being launched.
It is now going to aim to treat 2 million more people worldwide this coming September – a million more than its original goal.
Qadi Saeed Al Muroushid, director-general of Dubai Health Authority, told Gulf News the charitable initiative would likely surpass its goal of one million after one year.
“We expect to double the objective (figure) by September. We have a number of things planned through our partners,” he said.
He refused to release any more details, saying Noor Dubai (which translates to Light of Dubai) would announce the plans once they have been confirmed.
The foundation aims to cure blindness in those living in the Middle East, Asia and Africa – places where there is little hope to solve the problem due to poor economies and medical procedures.
“We are honored to have crossed the half-way mark in less than six months, thanks to our pioneering partners, and are confident of achieving our goal,” said Al-Maroushid.
Noor Dubai works with the Lions Club International Foundation, the world’s largest volunteer service.
Dr. Tebebe Berhan of the Lions Club in Ethiopia thanked the Sheikh for setting up Noor Dubai.
“The commitment and generosity of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the Noor Dubai organization towards river blindness control is highly significant. The fight against this debilitating disease is critical not only in terms of public health but also for its positive effect on economic development and poverty reduction. The control of this disease thus positively impacts the health and vitality of individuals and their communities as well.”
According to the Lions Club Foundation, more than 18 million people in Africa are infected with insect-borne river blindness, with more than 300,000 left irreversibly blind. An additional 125 million people are at risk from infection.
Noor Dubai is also working with international non-profit development agency ORBIS to provide patients with medical treatment, including cataract and trachoma surgeries, spectacles and training for primary health care workers, teachers and volunteer leaders from women’s groups. Additionally, nurses from district-level health centers will be trained to provide primary eye care and perform trichiasis surgery.
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