Where we work

Sightsavers’ programmes began in Africa in the 1950s, and we now work in more than 30 countries across Africa and Asia.

Our programmes cover northern and central Africa and Asia, in the countries highlighted in white on the map

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Our global history

Sightsavers’ first programmes started in the 1950s in Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Nigeria.

In the 1960s and 1970s our work expanded into Asia, with our first projects in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, and we continued to extend our work into several other African countries. Most recently, we started work in Yemen in 2018.

We now work in more than 30 countries, and have project offices in 25 of these countries. We also have fundraising offices in the UK, Ireland, United States, Italy and Norway.

Read about our latest work

A woman stands next to a sewing machine in a workshop with colour fabric displayed on the walls.
Sightsavers stories
Stories / Disability and inclusion /

“I never imagined such a future!”

Meet Hussaina, Knighty, Ivânia and Aminata. Their stories show how women and girls can thrive, prosper and lead when they can claim their human rights.

A woman smiles as she sits behind a desk with colourful cards.
Sightsavers stories
Stories / Disability and inclusion /

“Now people with disabilities can confidently vote”

Disability rights advocate Eveline is leading the push for accessible elections in Cameroon. Her work has reshaped how people with disabilities can vote.

A girl wearing a blue shirt smiles while standing in a school playground.
Sightsavers stories
Stories / Eye health /

“I want to be a doctor so I can help people”

At just seven years old, Luyando’s future was uncertain. Now her dreams and aspirations are back on track after two successful cataract operations.

How one couple’s vision helped millions to see

About our founders