Since its formation in 1998, ICEE has committed much of its resources to improving eye care. In Africa large numbers of people have limited or no access to eye health services. In many areas the only primary eye care providers are ophthalmic assistants or nurses, who typically work in community health centres and conduct visits to rural communities.

In a continent as large and deprived of eye care services as Africa, the ICEE strategic approach is of immense importance.

ICEE takes the role of implementer and facilitator, providing expertise in eye care education, infrastructure development and extensive advocacy experience with governments, communities and other stakeholders in the developing world. Through these efforts, ICEE offers assistance to countries to help build and maintain their own eye care systems.