Operation Smile

@OpSmileSA recently celebrated their 20th Anniversary🎉 With 67 programs and 6,000+ surgeries, plus training and care across the region, their impact continues to grow. Thank you to volunteers and partners like @CiplaAfrica for helping bring care closer to communities.

This #WorldHealthDay, we’re reminded that science & research are key in expanding equitable care. With 5 billion people lacking safe surgery, closing the gap requires data, policy & partnerships. Through #Operation100, we’re bringing care closer to home: bit.ly/4sWPf2V

Many parents of children born with cleft conditions ask one thing: why? Our International Family Study explores genetic & environmental risk factors. This #WorldHealthDay reminds us that evidence connects care to progress, expanding access. Learn more: bit.ly/47S6VEr

Recently, we joined @MiracleFeet, @CHeartLink and Global Action for Congenital Conditions in supporting a @WHO session at #IMNHC2026 focused on newborn screening and early care for congenital conditions. Together, we continue expanding access to quality care. #WorldHealthDay

As we approach #WorldHealthDay, we're reflecting on how #innovation can help expand access to care. This film, produced for us by @‌BBCStoryWorks, shows how #AI can be used as a tool to transform care for patients with cleft conditions. Watch the film: bit.ly/3BJG9AF

This World Health Worker Week (#WHWWeek), we celebrate the health workers at the heart of strong, resilient health systems. From surgeons and nurses to community health teams, their dedication makes life-changing care possible for children everywhere. #HealthForAll #HealthWorkers

#Research advances cleft care, turning data into action & #science into sustainable impact. From genetic risk factors to community health workers insights, #research helps to strengthen health systems & expand access to care. Learn more: bit.ly/41JFYjv #WorldHealthDay

Earlier this month, leaders from 12 countries across Latin America & the Caribbean met at the first regional forum to advance sustainable financing for surgical care. Over two days, participants collaborated, aligned priorities & began shaping actionable solutions for the region

If you had to choose one word to describe #OperationSmile, what would it be? We asked our #volunteers and received some inspiring responses. Now it’s your turn. Share your one word and learn more about the ways our volunteers drive sustainable #impact: bit.ly/47nGBBE

Children born with cleft conditions often face feeding challenges that put them at risk of malnutrition and delayed surgery. In Madagascar, Eli Zakariasy leads #nutrition programs giving families guidance to help children grow stronger. Read more: bit.ly/4c9SlJN

We’re thrilled to celebrate the launch of the newly upgraded Operating Rooms and ICU/HDU Complex at @KibungoH in Rwanda. This milestone strengthens surgical capacity, expands access to quality care, and supports the next generation of health care professionals.

Uyu munsi, ku Bitaro byigisha byo ku rwego rwa II bya Kibungo, Umunyamabanga Uhoraho @JNdayizigiye, yatashye inzu nshya y’indembe (ICU), n’inzu y’ibagiro irimo ibikoresho bigezweho, byubatswe ku bufatanye n’umuryango @operationsmile. Izi nyubako zizafasha mu kongerera ibitaro ubushobozi bwo kubaga, no kwegereza abaturage serivisi z’ubuvuzi zo ku rwego rwisumbuye batagombye koherezwa i Kigali. Ibi bikorwa biri muri gahunda ya Guverinoma y’u Rwanda yo kugeza serivisi z’ubuvuzi zifite ireme kuri bose. =============== Today, at Kibungo Level II Teaching Hospital, PS @JNdayizigiye inaugurated a new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and an expanded, fully equipped Operating Theatre, developed in partnership with @operationsmile. This infrastructure will significantly strengthen the hospital's surgical capacity and bring advanced, life-saving care closer to communities, reducing the need for referrals to Kigali for specialized services. The milestone reflects the Government of Rwanda’s continued commitment to expanding equitable access to quality healthcare for all.

#Oralhealth is essential to overall health, yet nearly half the world is affected by oral diseases. This #WorldOralHealthDay, and every day, we work to expand access to dental care for patients with cleft conditions — supporting health, happiness and brighter smiles everywhere.

Proper #nutrition is essential for #safesurgery and healthy recovery for children with cleft conditions. This #NationalNutritionMonth, we’re proud to support families with #education, guidance and resources to help children thrive before and after surgery.

Last week during #CSW70, we hosted a side event on advancing opportunities for #womeninmedicine. The discussion explored barriers in #training and career advancement, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and solutions to build a stronger, inclusive health workforce.

Join us Mar 24 at 10 a.m. EST for a live #webinar with @chifundo_grace titled “Profits Over Lives: Hyper-commercialisation of Medical Equipment and its Impact on Patient Care and Education.” Don’t miss this chance to expand your knowledge! Register now: bit.ly/3NrToMG

Proud to join @MiracleFeet, @CHeartLink and the Global Action of Congenital Conditions in supporting a @WHO satellite session at #IMNHC2026 on March 24 in Nairobi. The session will explore strategies to strengthen newborn screening and care for congenital conditions in LMICs.

Last month, we hosted our first MENA Nurse Development Training in Casablanca, bringing together 30 #nurses from across the region. Through discussions and hands-on practice, participants strengthened their #leadership capabilities & skills in providing safe, surgical care

Proper nutrition is essential for children with cleft conditions to safely undergo surgery. In Petén, Guatemala, Anayosell Castellanos helps families through our nutrition program—supporting children before, during and after surgery. #NationalNutritionMonth #NNM2026

Recently, we hosted a LAC Surgical Educator Accelerator in #Ecuador, bringing together 14 cleft surgeons from 8 countries for an innovative #training program designed to equip them with skills and strategies to become stronger educators and trainers.