The NGO Vision Internationale pour la Santé en Afrique (VISA) is organizing an unprecedented inter-school competition in Lomé, the capital of Togo. Under the theme “Diabetes and Its Complications at the Heart of Education,” this event aims to raise awareness and support people who have undergone amputations due to diabetes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 54% of people living with diabetes in Africa are undiagnosed. In response to this alarming reality, the NGO led by Dr. Damien Ekoue-Kouvahey, a general practitioner, is organizing an event that will take place at Agora Senghor school on July 13th 2024. It will bring together several local schools for an educational and entertaining competition.
A fight against diabetes beyond fund raising
For this first edition of the competition dubbed “Génie en Herbe,” the organizers hope for strong participation to maximize the funds raised to help amputees.
“This initiative will not only provide valuable assistance to those in need but will also strengthen awareness efforts against diabetes. Any companies or individuals who would like to help or sponsor are welcome to NGO VISA,” Crépin Djala Badjibassa, one of the event’s promoters told AfrikPage.
A patient affected by this disease testified: “Diabetes is a difficult disease to live with. It has disturbed us a lot. There are many other people in my situation who, like me, have spent a lot.” He adds: “I wish that the NGO VISA receives enough support to help us acquire prostheses.” This patient had to undergo the amputation of a foot and a finger due to diabetes.
To participate in this event, you simply need to purchase tickets, available from 2,000 CFA francs to 20,000 CFA francs. This is to approximately $3.50 to $35. Interested individuals can also contact the NGO via the details available on the flyer for bulk ticket purchases.
As a reminder, WHO research indicates that in 2021, approximately 24 million people were living with diabetes in Africa. This figure is expected to increase by 129% to 55 million by 2045.
