DILI, 21 August 2025 (TATOLI) – The World Health Organization (WHO) and Timor-Leste’s Ministry of Health (MoH) convened a final consultation on Thursday to discuss the National Strategic Plan for Eye Health 2026–2030.
WHO Representative in Timor-Leste, Arvind Mathur, described the consultation as a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its health system and ensure that quality eye care is accessible to all.
“Vision is central to the human experience, yet many of us take the ability to see for granted. Eye health may not always be prioritized, but it is a vital component of universal health coverage,” Mathur told journalist at Timor Plaza, Dili.
He emphasized that good vision supports learning, productivity, and overall well-being. Without it, opportunities diminish and inequalities grow. Globally, at least 2.2 billion people live with vision impairment or blindness –nearly half of which could have been prevented or treated.
Mathur noted that preventable blindness remains a challenge in Timor-Leste and must be addressed through concrete action. He highlighted three key strengths of the new strategy:
- Integration into Primary Health Care – Eye health will be embedded into routine care at all levels, including training for health workers, access to essential medicines and technologies, and robust referral systems;
- Equity and Access – Eye care must reach those most in need: children in schools, rural communities, women, people with disabilities, and the elderly;
- Partnership and Sustainability – The strategy’s success depends on collaboration among government, professional associations, NGOs, and development partners;
“WHO is committed to supporting evidence-based interventions, monitoring, and capacity-building. On behalf of WHO, I reaffirm our full support to the Ministry of Health and the people of Timor-Leste. Together, we can end avoidable blindness and build a future where every Timorese enjoys the right to healthy vision,” Mathur said.
Also speaking at the event, Vice Minister for Institutional Strengthening of Health, José Magno, said the consultation marks another critical step in strengthening the national health system and improving the quality of life for the Timorese people.
“Our eyes are a precious asset. Without them, we cannot learn, work, or interact with others. We face challenges in performing daily tasks,” he said.
Vice Minister Magno reported that 70% of the population in Timor-Leste suffers from vision problems caused by eye diseases – most of which are preventable.
“Conjunctivitis and other eye conditions are often worsened by delayed diagnosis and limited access to specialists. Ophthalmological services have been developed in Timor-Leste, but more needs to be done,” he concluded.
The final consultation received technical support from The Fred Hollows Foundation, East Timor Eye Health, Recover Audit Contractors (RACs), and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Attendees included Municipal Health Directors, Directors of Referral and Regional Hospitals, ophthalmologists, optometrists, health partners, and other distinguished guests.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor : Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
