Challenge:
In Zambia, hearing healthcare remains a low priority in the public health system. Lusaka, the capital, has the country’s only concentration of ENT and audiology services, but even here, resources are extremely limited.
There is no national newborn hearing screening program, and early identification is rare. A study in Lusaka’s primary schools found that 11.5% of children aged 6 to 13 had hearing impairment, highlighting the widespread and often undetected problem of hearing loss in school-age children.
Zambia has only a handful of trained audiologists, and most public hospitals lack basic diagnostic equipment. Stigma, misinformation, and limited awareness further prevent families from seeking support, leaving many children without access to the care and therapies they need.
How we help:
- Provide hearing aids and hearing care equipment for 450 children from vulnerable communities, establishing a structured follow-up care system with regular check-ups and maintenance.
- Build capacity for 160 audiology technicians and maternal and child health nurses in pediatric audiology, creating a local support system.
- Engage community leaders, teachers, and caregivers in awareness campaigns to promote early diagnosis and treatment, embedding hearing care into community health practices.
Strengthen partnerships with the Ministry of Health and educational institutions to advocate for the integration of Early Hearing Care into national healthcare plans, supporting long-term sustainability and local ownership.
About CBM:
Christian Blind Mission (CBM) is an international disability-inclusive development organization committed to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities in the poorest communities of the world. CBM is based in Germany with 22 country offices in Africa, Asia and Latin America. With over 115 years of experience, CBM is considered as one of the world’s oldest organizations working in this field.