Global and African Challenges in Eye Health: A Narrative Literature Review

Visual impairment and blindness constitute a major global public health issue, affecting over two billion people, nearly 90% of whom live in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate burden of preventable eye diseases, including cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and trachoma. This narrative review aims to synthesize recent scientific data on global and African eye health challenges, focusing on socioeconomic determinants, health systems, and inequalities in access to care. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, as well as reports from the WHO, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), and the World Bank. Studies published between 2000 and 2024 on epidemiology, service organization, and eye health policies were included. The results show that over 80% of visual impairments are preventable or curable. However, Africa suffers from a critical shortage of specialized human resources, infrastructure, and funding. Geographic, financial, and cultural barriers limit access to eye care. The integration of eye health into primary healthcare and universal health coverage remains insufficient. Eye health must be reconceptualized as a development priority. Strengthening health systems, training human resources, and mobilizing sustainable funding are essential to achieving the WHO's Vision 2030 goals. Keywords: blindness, visual impairment, eye health, Africa, public health.