WHO & UNICEF Open Global Call for Tenders from Eye Care Product Suppliers 

In a joint effort to combat vision impairment and blindness, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have announced a call for proposals from qualified suppliers. This initiative aims to expand their global supply catalogue with essential vision-assistive technologies. 

Through this Request for Proposal, WHO and UNICEF aim to establish Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) with suppliers. These partnerships will ensure a steady supply of critical vision products across four key categories: 

• Category 1: Eye and vision screening tools for early detection of vision problems. 
• Category 2: Comprehensive eye examination equipment, including those for refractive services. 
• Category 3: Spectacles, low vision aids, and other essential vision correction solutions. 
• Category 4: Products and services specifically designed to address blindness. 

“This initiative is a crucial step towards ensuring access to quality vision care for all and a fantastic opportunity for product suppliers to expand their businesses and be an important player in elevating efforts to end avoidable blindness globally,” stated Peter Holland, IAPB CEO.  

Open Call for Suppliers 

Qualified suppliers are encouraged to submit proposals for consideration. All details regarding product specifications, technical and commercial requirements, and submission guidelines are outlined in the official RFP document, available on the UN Global Marketplace (UNGM) website.  

Proposals must be submitted electronically to this email by 11:59 PM Copenhagen time on May 9th, 2024. 

This joint effort by WHO and UNICEF represents a significant step forward in tackling vision impairment, a major global health challenge. By increasing access to affordable vision products in low to middle income countries, the initiative has the potential to improve the lives of millions of people worldwide