The Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation Africa has intensified efforts to combat preventable blindness in Uganda through a free eye care campaign providing screening, treatment, eyeglasses, and cataract surgeries to vulnerable communities. The initiative, currently underway in Ntinda, has already benefited tens of thousands of Ugandans across the country.

Uganda continues to face a significant burden of preventable blindness, with cataracts accounting for an estimated 57 percent of all blindness cases. The challenge is compounded by a shortage of eye care specialists, leaving many patients without access to timely treatment.

Hundreds of patients turned up at the free eye camp in Ntinda seeking treatment for various eye conditions, particularly cataracts, which remain one of the leading causes of blindness in Uganda.

Organized by the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation Africa in partnership with international donors and medical experts, the initiative is providing free eye screening, medication, eyeglasses, and cataract surgeries to people who would otherwise struggle to afford treatment.

Zeeshan Arshad revealed that the foundation has so far screened more than 81,000 patients and successfully conducted over 10,000 eye surgeries across Uganda.

He commended the Government of Uganda and the Ministry of Health for supporting efforts aimed at improving access to quality eye care services.

The Project Director of the Comprehensive Eye Program at the University of Lahore, Dr. Muhammad Khizar, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases.

He noted that many cases of blindness can be prevented through timely medical intervention and access to cataract surgery.

Beneficiaries of the program described the initiative as life-changing, saying it has restored their vision and improved their quality of life.

Christine Namiyonga from Entebbe, whose eyesight had been affected by diabetes, said the free surgery gave her a new lease on life and renewed hope for the future.

Another beneficiary, Abdulrahman Senyendo, thanked the foundation for the support he received. He explained that he was first provided with free eyeglasses before later undergoing a successful eye operation at no cost.

The Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation Africa says it plans to expand its outreach programs to more districts, with the goal of ensuring that thousands more Ugandans can access quality eye care services and treatment.

Health experts say increased access to eye screening and treatment remains critical in reducing preventable blindness and improving the quality of life for affected communities across the country.