Retina South Africa

Retina South Africa is a registered non-profit and public benefit organisation, founded in 1980, and the only patient-led advocacy and support group for people affected by retinal degenerative conditions in South Africa. We provide counselling, education, referral services, and community support to individuals and families navigating the challenges of vision loss. As a founding member of Retina International, we collaborate with global partners, researchers, and advocacy networks to ensure South Africans benefit from the latest advances in genetics, stem cell research, artificial vision, and emerging therapies. We also support the Retinal Degeneration Research Project at the University of Cape Town, which is mapping genetic mutations in South African families to identify patients eligible for clinical trials and imminent therapies. Mission Our mission is to: • Support patients and families with counselling, education, and referral services. • Advance research and clinical trials by facilitating genetic testing and supporting local and international studies. • Advocate for equitable access to treatments for inherited, age-related, and diabetes-related retinal conditions. • Raise awareness to ensure early diagnosis and intervention and fundraise to achieve our aims. • Collaborate globally to accelerate progress towards a cure and ensure South Africans are not left behind. Our Story Retina South Africa was founded by patients and families who refused to accept blindness as inevitable. Since 1980, we have grown into a national voice for retinal patients, championing their rights and ensuring their stories are heard. Over the decades, we have: • Helped thousands of patients access counselling and support. • Partnered with researchers to uncover the genetic roots of retinal conditions in South Africa’s diverse population. • Advocated for inclusion in international clinical trials, ensuring South Africans benefit from cutting-edge therapies. • Built strong donor and organisational partnerships to sustain our mission of hope and empowerment. Today, Retina South Africa stands as a beacon of resilience and progress, driven by the belief that a cure is in sight for blindness. With the support of donors, partners, and the public, we continue to fight for a future where every South African with a retinal condition has access to treatment, support, and the opportunity to thrive. By partnering with Retina South Africa, you are investing in: • Life-changing research that brings global breakthroughs to South African patients. • Empowerment programmes that help families live with dignity and independence. • Advocacy and awareness that ensure no patient is left behind. Together, we can transform the future of vision care in South Africa and bring hope to thousands of families.