Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH), through its Eye Unit, states that it has successfully conducted a week-long eye surgical camp at Aduku Health Centre IV.
The event caused the restoration of sight to 100 patients suffering from various eye conditions.
The camp, which took place from April 20 to April 24, 2026, was led by Dr Shamin Namwase, Senior Ophthalmologist at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, with support from the Kilimanjaro Centre for Community Ophthalmology.
Out of 200 patients screened, 100 underwent successful surgeries and are recovering well with significantly improved vision.
Speaking at the conclusion of the camp, Dr Namwase expressed satisfaction with the outcomes.
The team, she said, are pleased to have successfully conducted 100 surgeries within a single week. “Bringing these specialised services closer to the community has enabled many individuals—who would otherwise be unable to travel—to access life-changing treatment,” Dr Namwase expressed.
The outreach recorded an overwhelming turnout of over 700 patients from Kwania and neighbouring districts, underscoring the growing demand for accessible eye care services in rural communities.
“This highlights the urgent need for expanded outreach programs and increased staffing of eye care specialists at Health Centre IV facilities across the region,” Lira Regional Referral Hospital said in a statement on Friday.
The most common condition treated during the camp was cataract, a leading cause of blindness, particularly among the elderly. Other conditions addressed included glaucoma, eye infections, inflammation, and removal of foreign bodies from the eye.
Dr Namwase noted that despite the event’s success, misconceptions and fears surrounding eye surgery persist among some community members. However, she emphasised that such fears are gradually being dispelled as beneficiaries share positive outcomes.
Isaac Ekwan, Clinical Ophthalmology Officer at Lira Regional Referral Hospital and Eye Care Programs Manager with the Kilimanjaro Centre for Community Ophthalmology, reported favourable post-surgical outcomes.
Ekwan added that the team also strengthened local capacity by mentoring staff and improving the ophthalmic theatre at Aduku Health Centre IV to support future interventions.
“Cataract is not just a health issue—it is a socio-economic challenge, as it significantly limits productivity. Restoring sight restores livelihoods,” he noted.
Dr Patrick Ogwal, Senior Medical Officer and In-Charge of Aduku Health Centre IV, commended the visiting specialists for their dedication and impact. In addition to surgeries, approximately 500 patients received corrective lenses to improve their vision.
The four-day event marks the second successful eye surgical camp conducted at Aduku Health Centre IV under the auspices of LRRH. A similar initiative took place in 2025.
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