A total of 996 eyes belonging to 823 patients have been screened at a special cataract surgery camp held at Igunga District Hospital in Tabora Region, as part of a government-supported initiative aimed at restoring sight and reducing preventable blindness in the country.
The camp, implemented in collaboration with Helen Keller International and other health partners, has brought specialized eye care services closer to residents, many of whom have long struggled with vision problems due to limited access to treatment in rural areas.
Speaking during the opening of the camp, Igunga Acting District Commissioner Elizabeth Rwegasila said the high number of patients reflects the growing need for eye health services in the community.
She noted that the initiative is giving hope to hundreds of residents who are now set to undergo cataract surgery and regain their sight.
She added that the programme is fully supporting patients by covering transport from their homes, providing meals, accommodation, and ensuring proper care before and after surgery to guarantee safe recovery and successful outcomes.
Health experts at the camp explained that the screening of 996 eyes among 823 patients shows that some individuals are affected in both eyes.
Cataract was identified as the leading cause of vision loss among the patients, a condition that can lead to blindness if not treated but is curable through surgery.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Greater Mande said cataract remains one of the major causes of avoidable blindness in the country, but timely medical intervention can fully restore sight.
He encouraged patients who receive treatment to share their experiences with others in their communities so that more people with similar conditions can seek help.
He also urged the public to avoid delaying eye treatment, stressing that early diagnosis is key to preventing permanent vision loss.
He said many people continue to live with treatable eye conditions due to lack of awareness or fear, despite available services.
Tabora Regional Medical Officer Dr. Boniface Marwa said the partnership between the government and development partners such as Helen Keller International is strengthening eye care services in the region.
He said the collaboration has not only supported treatment but also helped train health workers, ensuring that services continue even after the programme ends.
He added that the region will continue working with partners to expand outreach services so that more people in rural and hard-to-reach areas can access cataract surgery and other essential eye care services.
Helen Keller International Country Director Dr. George Kabona reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting efforts to eliminate preventable blindness.
He said the organization will continue working with the government to provide medical support, training for health workers, and community education on eye health.
He emphasized that strengthening local expertise is key to ensuring long-term sustainability of eye care services, noting that trained professionals will continue serving communities even after specific projects conclude.
The camp is part of wider national efforts to improve access to specialized health services and ensure that preventable conditions such as cataracts no longer deprive citizens of their sight and productivity, especially in rural areas where access to treatment remains limited.
