Free cataract surgery brings hope to over 200 Wajir residents

Some of the elderly people who underwent free cataract surgery in Wajir County. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

Over 200 residents in Wajir County have benefited from a free eye screening and cataract surgery initiative.

Aimed at restoring vision and changing lives, the Baitulmaal initiative in collaboration with Kibuli Muslim Hospital organised a three-day free eye cataract surgery camp at Wajir Referral Hospital in Kenya.

The initiative, which concluded on Monday marked a significant milestone in the organisation's commitment to healthcare accessibility in underserved communities.

Baitulmaal, renowned for its humanitarian efforts across Africa, teamed up with local medical professionals from Wajir Referral Hospital to ensure the camp's success.

Over the course of three days, more than 200 patients received life-changing eye surgeries, primarily targeting bilateral cataracts, a condition that severely impairs vision and quality of life.

Dr Stephen Nguku, a leading ophthalmologist expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the camp saying they were able to alleviate the suffering of many patients and restored their hope.

"We encountered a substantial number of patients suffering from bilateral cataracts, a treatable condition that unfortunately limits many from leading productive lives," he said.

A doctor screens the eye of a patient who came for the free medical camp in Wajir County. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

The camp adds to Baitulmaal's extensive track record of conducting similar initiatives throughout Africa.

Just last week, the organisation held a successful eye surgery camp in Kano, Northern Nigeria, underscoring its commitment to addressing healthcare disparities across the continent.

"Baitulmaal's efforts extend beyond healthcare," remarked Ms Zahra Harun, Baitulmaal East Africa Director.

"We also actively support education, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, as well as orphan support initiatives throughout East Africa. Our holistic approach aims to uplift communities and create sustainable change," she said.

She said the impact of such initiatives is profound, providing not only immediate medical relief but also empowering individuals to regain their independence and contribute actively to their communities.

"As Baitulmaal continues to expand its outreach, partnerships like the one with Kibuli Muslim Hospital exemplify the transformative power of collaborative humanitarian efforts," said Ms Zahra.

For the patients of Wajir who received surgeries, the camp represents more than just medical treatment-it signifies renewed hope and a brighter future.

A doctor screens the eye of a patient who came for the free medical camp in Wajir County. [Mohamed Saman, Standard]

Halima Hassan, one of the beneficiaries said she was grateful that the camp has given her a new lease of life/.

"I can see again and take care of my grandchildren. This camp has given me a new lease on life," she said.

Isnina Ibrahim, who had been suffering from cataracts for years now looks forward to a future with renewed vision.

"I had almost given up hope. This surgery has given me a second chance to see my children and live independently," she shared.

Omar Bulle, the East Africa Field Manager for Beitulmaal, said the camp aims to support individuals who cannot afford healthcare or access medical facilities.

While encouraging residents to take advantage of the free health and eye camps, Omar said cataracts, often associated with old age, are a medical condition where the eye lens progressively becomes opaque, leading to blurred vision or blindness.

"The free clinic has been crucial for residents with severe eye illnesses who lacked access to treatment within the sub-counties," he noted.

Normally, many residents with eye diseases are forced to travel to neighbouring counties for medical services due to the lack of accessible healthcare facilities.