Jean & Jacques Chibret Prize 2026: a major distinction in African ophthalmology
Created by the Fondation Théa, the Jean & Jacques Chibret Prize is awarded each year to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the development of ophthalmology in Africa.
Presented in person by Henri Chibret and Jean-Frédéric Chibret during the congress of the Société Française d’Ophtalmologie, this award highlights outstanding careers combining clinical practice, research, and public health engagement.
2026 Laureate: Professor Fatou Sylla
In 2026, the prize was awarded to Professor Fatou Sylla, an ophthalmologist and pediatric ophthalmology specialist at the CHU-IOTA de Bamako in Mali. Born in Bamako, she represents a generation of physicians for whom medicine is a true vocation. Initially guided toward ophthalmology by Professor AG Mohamed, she transformed this direction into a lifelong commitment and built an exemplary medical career. In April 2024, she became President of the Société Malienne d’Ophtalmologie, strengthening her leadership role in the region. A specialist in retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer affecting young children, Professor Sylla is actively working to improve its diagnosis and treatment across Africa. In contexts where late diagnosis remains common, her work contributes to saving lives and improving patient outcomes. She is also involved in international initiatives, including collaborations with the Alliance Mondiale Contre le Cancer, in partnership with the Fondation Théa.
Training and knowledge transfer: a key pillar of her mission
As Associate Professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Odonto-Stomatology in Bamako, Professor Sylla plays a central role in training the next generation of ophthalmologists. She is also responsible for training programs at the Institut d’Ophtalmologie Tropicale de l’Afrique, where she supports students with both high standards and mentorship, encouraging them to reach excellence. Beyond her scientific achievements, Professor Fatou Sylla embodies a deeply human approach to medicine, rooted in real-world challenges and dedicated to public service. Strongly attached to her roots in Bamako, she promotes a model of medicine based on transmission, commitment, and perseverance. Her message to young African ophthalmologists is clear: believe in your vocation, persist despite challenges, and act without waiting for recognition. The Jean & Jacques Chibret Prize is part of a broader initiative supporting innovation and access to eye care in Africa. By highlighting careers such as Professor Sylla’s, the Fondation Théa helps inspire an entire generation of healthcare professionals.
Why is this award important?
The Jean & Jacques Chibret Award forms part of a wider initiative to support innovation and access to eye care in Africa. By highlighting careers such as that of Professor Sylla, the Fondation Théa is helping to inspire a whole generation of healthcare professionals.
Learn more about the Fondation Théa
Through the Jean & Jacques Chibret Prize and numerous initiatives in ophthalmology, the Fondation Théa is actively committed to supporting research, education, and access to eye care worldwide.