THE newly formed Eyes for Africa project plans to start an eye bank in Zimbabwe that would supply corneas to those suffering from eye problems, it was learnt recently.

Solomon Guramatunhu, Eyes for Africa chairman, said his non-profit making organisation was finalising plans to develop Zimbabwe's first eye bank. Currently, corneas used in local eye operations are being imported from the US.

Guramatunhu, an eye specialist who launched Eyes for Africa last year, said one percent of all Africans were partially sighted and 80% of the cases were a result of cataracts.

"We would like to go on a publicity campaign to urge the corporate world to assist in the development of an eye bank," said Guramatunhu, a well-known Zimbabwean eye specialist.

Eyes for Africa recently received a donation of $11m towards its projects from commercial bank, Time Bank.

Time Bank managing director, Chris Tande, said the donation, which would be increased next year to match Zimbabwe's galloping inflation, was part of the bank's policy of giving back to the community. The money was presented to Guramatunhu during a ceremony at a local hotel.

"Some prefer to call it a donation but we believe this is an investment to the people of Zimbabwe," added Tande.