Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Health Reporter
DANISH eye specialist, Dr Finn Juncker, has brought relief to hundreds of Mutare residents by distributing free eye spectacles in Sakubva.
The eye specialist was a special guest at a two-day health expo organised by Mutare Specialist Lions Club in partnership with Ministry of Health and Child Care and Zimbabwe Diabetes Association (ZDA), held at Mutare Vocational Training Centre this week.
Dr Juncker said he came to Sakubva out of the desire to offer his expertise and improve vision care to underprivileged communities.
“I was motivated by the realisation that many people, especially the elderly, suffer from eye problems, but cannot afford consultations and corrective lenses, hence the provision of the much-needed eye care services to Sakubva residents.
“I have seen so many people struggling with their vision, and it is heart breaking that something as simple as a pair of glasses can make a huge difference in their lives. Unfortunately, many cannot afford them,” he said, adding that his mission to Zimbabwe is purely humanitarian, and hopes to assist as many people as possible during his visit.
“Good vision is a basic need, and I believe that no one should be left behind, simply because they cannot afford eye care,” he said.
More than 300 people received free spectacles during the two-day programme, with more expected to benefit as the initiative continues, while a good number was referred for consultations.
Mutare Lions Club president, who is also Zimbabwe Diabetes Association president, Bishop Jeremiah Matenhese, commended Dr Juncker for his generosity and highlighted the impact of the initiative.
He noted that the partnership targets to reach 1 000 residents.
“This initiative is life-changing. Many people are walking away with clear vision today, something they had struggled with for years. Our target is to help at least 1 000 people before the programme concludes. The collaboration has proven to be a vital intervention in addressing eye health challenges in the community. Plans are underway to extend the programme to other areas so that many people benefit. The initiative, not only provides immediate solutions through free spectacles, but also promotes long-term health awareness. The importance of regular eye check-ups is our core business as Mutare Specialist Lions Club because we are there to help our communities,” he said.
Mutare Specialist Lions Club vice-president, Ms Tafara Chikumba echoed similar sentiments, and highlighted the need for the programme to be extended to rural areas where access to eye care services is more limited.
“Many people in rural parts of Mutare District suffer from eye problems, but have no means of getting medical assistance. We are working on expanding this programme beyond the city to ensure that those in remote areas also benefit,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the programme a success, and emphasised on the need for continuous efforts to improve eye health in Zimbabwe.
In addition to providing free spectacles, the programme also offered other crucial health services.
ZDA Ambassador, Miss Whitney Chinowawa said free eye screening, blood pressure checks, sugar level checks, and counselling were offered during the health expo.
“Our goal is, not just to give out glasses, but to ensure that people get a comprehensive health check-up. Many of those with eye problems also have underlying conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. By offering these free services, we are helping people detect these conditions early,” she said, urging residents to take advantage of such initiatives and prioritise their health.
Many elderly residents who were struggling with vision problems for years without medical help were overjoyed after receiving spectacles that instantly improved their eyesight.
Mrs Hardness Kamutoro said her impaired vision was affecting her daily activities and livelihood.
“I was struggling to read and even see things clearly for years, but I could not afford glasses. Today, I can see properly again, and I am so happy,” she said.
Another resident, Mrs Grace Tsanga said: “I had trouble seeing the faces of my grandchildren and could not even read the Bible properly, which deeply affected me. Now, with these glasses, I feel like a new person. I can enjoy life again and participate in community activities.”
Online Reporter