Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH), through its Eye Unit, has restored sight to 100 patients during a successful week-long eye surgical camp held at Aduku Health Center IV in Kwania District.
The camp, which ran from April 20 to April 24, 2026, was led by LRRH Senior Ophthalmologist Dr. Shamin Namwase, with technical support from the Kilimanjaro Centre for Community Ophthalmology.
Out of 200 patients screened, 100 underwent successful surgeries and are currently recovering well with significantly improved vision.
Dr. Namwase expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, noting the impact of bringing specialised services closer to rural communities.
“We are pleased to have successfully conducted 100 surgeries within a single week. Delivering these services at community level has enabled many patients who would otherwise struggle to travel to access life-changing treatment,” she said.
The outreach attracted more than 700 patients from Kwania and neighbouring districts, reflecting the high demand for eye care services in rural areas and highlighting the need for expanded outreach programmes and more ophthalmic staffing at lower-level health facilities.
Cataract emerged as the most commonly treated condition, followed by glaucoma, eye infections, inflammation, and removal of foreign bodies. Health workers described cataract as a leading cause of avoidable blindness, particularly among the elderly.
Despite the success, Dr. Namwase noted that fear and misconceptions about eye surgery remain a challenge, though growing success stories from beneficiaries are helping to change community perceptions.
Isaac Ekwan, Clinical Ophthalmology Officer at LRRH and Eye Care Programmes Manager with the Kilimanjaro Centre for Community Ophthalmology, reported positive post-operative outcomes.
He also noted that the team strengthened local capacity by mentoring staff and improving the ophthalmic theatre at Aduku HC IV to support future procedures.
“Cataract is not just a health issue but a socio-economic burden because it limits productivity. Restoring sight restores livelihoods,” Ekwan said.
Dr. Patrick Ogwal, Senior Medical Officer and In-Charge of Aduku Health Center IV, commended the visiting specialists for their service and impact. He added that alongside the surgeries, about 500 patients received corrective lenses to improve their vision.
Beneficiaries of the camp expressed gratitude, saying the restored sight will enable them to return to productive and independent lives.
This marks the second eye surgical camp conducted at Aduku Health Center IV under LRRH, following a similar intervention in 2025.
