The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp entered its second day on Saturday, 28th March, with an overwhelming turnout at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where more than 4,000 people have so far turned up to access free eye care services.
Organized in memory of Rajiv Ruparelia and spearheaded by the Ruparelia Foundation, the three-day outreach has already delivered critical services to at least 1,000 patients, including 155 successful eye surgeries, of which 14 were pediatric cases, within just two days.
Addressing the press on day two, Sheena Ruparelia, Director at Ruparelia Group and Trustee of the Ruparelia Foundation, highlighted the ongoing eye care crisis in Uganda, as thousands continue turning up for life-changing treatment at no cost.
She added that medical teams had already completed 50 surgeries on Saturday alone, targeting 100 procedures for the day, reflecting the scale and intensity of the camp.
On top of the surgeries, the camp has issued 400 prescription glasses. Sheena praised the team of 15 doctors from Mulago Hospital and C-Care who are working tirelessly to deliver the gift of sight.
“Most camps in Uganda usually just screen patients and let them find their own way for treatment. We are here to provide solutions. That is why we have partnered with many organizations to ensure that when you leave this camp, the majority of people have been treated—whether it’s cataract surgery, prescription glasses, or medication,” Sheena noted.
Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University and one of the lead organizers, hailed the initiative as both life-changing for patients and a practical learning opportunity for medical students.
“Our students from Victoria University are dispensing glasses, conducting checkups, and assisting in surgeries. It is amazing work, and at the same time, they are gaining hands-on experience to become better health workers,” Dr. Muganga said.
He emphasized the significance of the free services, noting that many beneficiaries would otherwise be unable to afford such care.
“Some people know the cost of this kind of treatment. A single surgery in hospitals in Kampala can cost between Shs3 million and Shs15 million. But here, patients are receiving surgeries, glasses, and medication for free. This is a huge milestone for the people of Bukedea,” he explained.
The Vice Chancellor also paid tribute to the medical teams and volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver care to the massive crowds.
“I want to sincerely thank all the doctors, nurses, students, and volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to serve here. Their sacrifice and compassion are the backbone of this operation,” he added.
The camp has attracted patients from across Uganda and beyond, underscoring the urgent demand for specialized eye care in underserved communities.
“We have seen people coming from as far as Kenya, Gulu, Mbale, Kumi, Soroti, and other regions across the country. This shows the magnitude of need for such services, not just in Bukedea but across the entire Teso region,” Dr. Muganga noted.
Medical teams are providing a wide range of services, including eye screening, diagnosis, medication, prescription of glasses, and surgical interventions for complex conditions. Minor treatments include eye drops and medication, while corrective lenses and surgical scheduling are offered to those with advanced cases.
Sheena Ruparelia revealed that the Ruparelia Foundation has decided to extend the eye camp by two more days to meet the overwhelming demand for treatment and services.
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp stands out as one of the largest free medical outreaches in the region, bringing hope, healing, and restoring vision to thousands—many of whom had long suffered in silence due to the high cost of treatment.