Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) will provide free cataract surgeries and specialist eye care services during a week-long medical outreach camp in Arusha, as the government steps up efforts to expand access to specialised healthcare across the country.
The services will be offered from July 13 to 19, 2026, at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Grounds under the third edition of the Arusha Free Medical Camp, allowing patients to receive treatment without charge.
Speaking while inspecting final preparations for the outreach programme, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports and Arusha Urban Member of Parliament, Paul Makonda, called on residents of Arusha and neighbouring regions to make use of the opportunity to access specialist and super-specialist medical services.
He said the camp would enable patients who require advanced treatment, particularly eye surgery, to receive care free of charge, reducing barriers to accessing specialised health services.
Mr Makonda said the participation of Muhimbili National Hospital and other public health institutions demonstrates the government's commitment to bringing quality healthcare closer to communities through outreach programmes.
During the camp, MNH's specialist team will conduct eye examinations and perform free cataract surgeries for eligible adult patients.
Hospital officials said members of the public experiencing cataract-related vision problems are encouraged to attend for screening and treatment.
Cataracts remain one of the leading causes of preventable blindness, and timely surgery can restore vision and significantly improve patients' quality of life.
The outreach programme is expected to increase access to essential eye care services for residents of Arusha and surrounding areas who might otherwise struggle to obtain specialised treatment.
