Sante Initiative

READING GLASSES CHALLENGE; Uganda

PROVEN INTERVENTION TO BE DISTRIBUTED

Reading Glasses

Learn more about the Reading Glasses Challenge and how increasing access to non-prescription reading or working glasses can improve the livelihoods of those in need.

DISTRIBUTION MODEL INNOVATION

Sante Initiative’s mission is to increase access to reading glasses for people with presbyopia living in low and middle-income countries.

The organization will connect reading glasses to people living with presbyopia by raising awareness about presbyopia through conducting educational sessions for health workers and community members, and developing informational materials (pamphlets, videos, online content) on presbyopia.

They will facilitate access to diagnostic tools by utilizing mobile apps with Snellen charts, offering self-testing options for individuals with smartphones, and making these charts available in community drug shops and clinics. They will also ensure quality control for prescribed glasses by ensuring that high-quality glasses are prescribed and conducting periodic audits to ensure compliance with prescription guidelines.

Sante Initiative was started in 2024 by Irene Mbabazi and Derrick Bary Abila. Both individuals are passionate about promoting better vision health in Africa.

PILOT AND SCALING GOALS

  • Reach 500 beneficiaries during the pilot.

  • Distribute 500 reading eyeglasses during the pilot.

  • Fundraise USD 25,000.

FOUNDING TEAM

Irene Mbabazi - Co-Founder

Derrick Bary Abila - Co-Founder