Youth Month Spotlight: Bridging the Gap in Children’s Eye Care in South Africa
At Kobus Siemens Optometrist Oogkundige, Youth Month is more than just a celebration — it’s a call to action.
Every June, we’re reminded of the incredible potential our youth hold. But how can we expect young minds to thrive if they can’t clearly see the world around them?
The Hidden Crisis of Bridging the Gap: Children’s Vision in Africa
According to a systematic review published in African Health Sciences (Alrasheed, 2021), more than 1.4 million children globally are blind, and over 17 million live with low vision. Alarmingly, three-quarters of these children reside in developing countries — including right here in Africa.
We understand that affordability remains one of the biggest challenges many families face. Therefore, to help bridge this gap, we are proud to offer reduced rates for SASSA members. In doing so, we aim to ensure that no child is left behind simply because of cost, and that every young person has the opportunity to receive the eye care they need.
The review highlights three major barriers that prevent children from accessing eye care in African countries:
- Affordability
- Accessibility
- Availability
These aren’t just abstract concepts. They represent real, day-to-day struggles for families across South Africa and the continent — from long travel distances and limited eye health services to the high cost of treatment and lack of awareness.
Why It Matters
Vision problems can go unnoticed in children. Many don’t realise their eyesight is impaired, and parents or teachers may not spot the signs early enough. Without timely intervention, these issues can impact a child’s:
- School performance
- Social development
- Emotional wellbeing
- Long-term opportunities
Tragically, the article notes that 60% of children who go blind may die within a year of losing their sight — a stark reminder that eye health is deeply linked to overall health and wellbeing.
Our Commitment at Kobus Siemens Optometrist
This Youth Month, we’re taking deliberate steps to break these barriers:
👓 Discounted Eye Care for SASSA Members
We understand that affordability remains one of the biggest challenges many families face. Therefore, to help bridge this gap, we are proud to offer reduced rates for SASSA members. In doing so, we aim to ensure that no child is left behind simply because of cost, and that every young person has the opportunity to receive the eye care they need.
📍 Conveniently Located in Rustenburg
We’re based at 30 Heystek Street, making professional optometry services more accessible to our local community.
🧒 Compassionate, Paediatric-Friendly Eye Exams
Our team is trained to work gently and patiently with children, making sure they feel safe and supported during their visit.
🌐 Booking & Contact
You can visit us at 30 Heystek Street or call us on +27 14 592 0630 to book your child’s eye exam today.
Eye Health Is a Right, Not a Luxury
As the article by Alrasheed (2021) stresses, early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing avoidable blindness in children. But for this to happen, communities must be equipped with affordable, accessible, and child-friendly services.
This Youth Month, let’s come together to make a difference — one eye exam at a time.
We can be Bridging the Gap in Children’s Eye Care in South Africa together!
