Cure Blindness Project

Bridging Global Biotechnology and Public Health in Eritrea: Dr. Menghis Bairu on Eritrea’s Path to Medical Self-Reliance ERITREA ― Dr. Menghis Bairu is an Eritrean-American physician, philanthropist, Co-founder, President and CEO of a biotechnology company "Bio Usawa" with more than three decades of international executive experience in the life sciences industry. Throughout his career, he has led major biotechnology initiatives and multi-billion-dollar business transactions while also maintaining a strong commitment to medical education and global health. In this interview with @shabait journalist Sabrina Solomon, @DrMenghis presents a vision that extends beyond humanitarian medical missions toward building a sustainable, self-reliant healthcare system in #Eritrea. Through his work with the #CureBlindness Project, the Ministry of Health, and Orotta School of Medicine and Dentistry, he emphasizes training local specialists rather than relying on foreign expertise, ensuring that knowledge and technology remain within the country. A central theme of his work is the establishment of the Berhan Ayni Ophthalmic Hospital as a regional Center of Excellence. His long-term goal is to equip the hospital with world-class technology, develop highly trained Eritrean ophthalmologists through local residency programs, and create an internationally competitive eye care system capable of serving both Eritreans and patients from neighboring countries. Dr. Menghis also highlights the importance of leveraging the expertise and global networks of the Eritrean diaspora. Through organizations such as the Eritrean-American Healthcare Association, he advocates structured collaboration between diaspora professionals and Eritrean institutions to strengthen medical education, transfer technology, and improve healthcare infrastructure. Beyond restoring sight through cataract surgeries and corneal transplants, Dr. Menghis views #blindness reduction as a broader development strategy that directly addresses poverty and improves quality of life. Looking ahead, he envisions Eritrea becoming a destination for reverse medical eye-care tourism, with the Berhan Ayni Ophthalmic Hospital serving as a premier regional hub staffed by homegrown specialists and supported by international partnerships. Here is the full interview: shabait.com/2026/06/11/visio…