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Namibian eye doctor honoured for fighting blindness

Namibian eye doctor honoured for fighting blindness

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An eye doctor from Namibia who has provided no-cost treatment to more than 30,000 people is a recipient of the first United Nations Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize.

Dr Helena Ndume originally wanted to be a fashion designer but switched to ophthalmology because her country had a greater need for doctors.

The prize, which is named after South Africa’s first democratically elected leader, honours one man and one woman who have dedicated their lives to serving others.

Jorge Sampaio, a former president of Portugal, is also a recipient.

Dr Ndume spoke to Ruth Fertig about her fight against blindness.

Duration: 3’08”

Photo Credit
UN Photo/Helena Ndume