Over 300 receive free eye treatment in Rubirizi

In a remarkable effort to improve eye health in rural Uganda, over 300 residents of Rubirizi District received free eye treatment services through a community outreach program.

This initiative, aimed at addressing the rising cases of preventable blindness and visual impairment, provided essential medical care to a community with limited access to specialized healthcare.

The three-day medical camp was organized by See God First Ministries Uganda under the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.

The camp offered eye screenings, treatment for common eye conditions, minor surgeries, and distribution of eyeglasses to those in need. Patients were diagnosed with a range of conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors.

Rubirizi District, like many rural areas in Uganda, struggles with limited access to specialized healthcare services, especially eye health.

Due to a lack of resources, awareness, and affordability, many residents live with untreated eye conditions, some for years. This program came as a lifeline to these individuals.

One of the beneficiaries, Joy Muhungirehi, a 90-year-old resident of Ndekye Ward in Rubirizi Town Council, expressed her gratitude after receiving treatment for cataracts.

She shared her relief, saying, "I had been losing my sight slowly, and I was worried I would go blind. I am so thankful to the doctors who came to help us."She lamented.

The free eye care services did more than restore vision; they transformed lives.

For many recipients, especially the elderly and breadwinners, regaining sight means returning to daily activities, caring for families, and contributing to the local economy.

Children who were struggling in school due to vision problems also received eyeglasses, improving their chances of success in education.

Rubirizi Town Council Chairperson, John Magezi praised the initiative, noting its long-term benefits for the district.

"This program has brought hope to many families. Eye problems have been a silent burden here, and we are grateful for the support we have received," Magezi said.

Pastor Joakim Bwambale of Nyakasaru SDA Church in Rubirizi Town emphasized the importance of a healthy congregation.

“A healthy person is essential for a vibrant church. When our members are healthy, they can worship, serve, and participate fully in church activities. That’s why we’re committed to providing essential healthcare services, like eye care, to ensure our community’s well-being,”said Pastor Bwambale.

The success of this initiative has sparked discussions about making such services more regular in rural districts.

Organizers hope to secure additional funding and partnerships to expand their reach and provide follow-up care for patients.

Chairperson of the See God First Ministries Uganda, Patience Asiimwe, explained that the organization launched its free eye treatment services after recognizing the dire need for accessible eye medical care in the community.

“We were moved to act after witnessing numerous individuals struggling with significant sight challenges due to lack of access to medical treatment. Our mission is to bring hope and healing to those in need, and we believe that restoring vision is a powerful way to transform lives,” she said.

According to general eye health data, approximately 12% of Uganda’s population suffers from some form of visual impairment, with a higher prevalence in rural areas.

As the residents of Rubirizi celebrate this milestone, the program serves as a reminder of the importance of healthcare accessibility in underserved communities.

Vision, often taken for granted, is essential for individuals to live full and productive lives, and initiatives like this bring that possibility within reach for all.