6,809 Zanzibar residents receive free specialist eye care

A seven-day specialist eye-care campaign reached 6,809 people in Zanzibar’s North Unguja and Urban West regions, offering examinations, treatment and surgery free of charge.

The campaign began at Kinduni Health Centre in North Unguja from August 29 to 31, then moved to Sebleni Health Centre in Urban West from September 1 to 4. The programme brought together Zanzibar’s Office of the First Vice President, Muhimbili National Hospital and Qatar Charity, with the goal of reducing avoidable visual impairment.

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In North Unguja, 971 people received treatment, while 136 patients underwent eye surgery.

Muhimbili director general Dr Delilah Kimambo said 971 people received treatment in North Unguja and 136 underwent eye surgery. In Urban West, around 4,536 people sought care and 254 patients underwent surgery. Across both locations, doctors performed 373 cataract operations and identified 446 people with cataracts. Another 3,830 people received treatments including glasses, medicines and professional advice.

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Cataracts, glaucoma and diabetes-related damage can be detected early and treated before they cause permanent disability.

Ussi Khamis Debe, executive secretary of the Council of People with Disabilities, said eye health supports education, employment and productivity. He said conditions including cataracts, glaucoma and diabetes-related eye damage can be detected and treated before causing permanent disability.

Qatar Charity resident director Amjad Al Tahan called the campaign one of the organisation’s most successful. He said the group was considering extending the service to Pemba and broadening community health programmes in response to the demand. Urban West regional commissioner Moh’d Ali Abdalla also asked partners to consider special services for schoolchildren and screening for other illnesses, including cancer and stomach conditions among women.

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This was one of the most successful campaigns we have ever conducted.