dyton mupawaenda
Talent Gore
SCORES of Harare senior citizens are set to benefit from a free cataract surgery programme at Sally Mugabe Hospital.
The programme will run from Tuesday to Thursday but screening for those, who will operated on, is already underway. Cataracts, a clouding of the lens that hinders vision, are the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally.
In Zimbabwe, over 60 percent of the blind population suffers from cataracts, highlighting a significant need for treatment, especially among seniors, who are more susceptible.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care, along with its donor partners, Africa Future Foundation and Vision Care, is launching the initiative, which aims to improve the vision and quality of life for senior citizens, who are struggling with cataracts.
“Today I’m here to get assistance for my eyes. I have cataracts, this is why I decided to come since it’s for free,” said Sekuru Moyo. I heard about a programme to fix eyes, so I came to get help.
“I have symptoms of cataracts, I can’t even read, it’s a big challenge for me.”
Ophthalmologist Dr Pamidzai Madzima highlighted that surgery for of screened patients will take place from Tuesday to Thursday
“We are doing a free cataracts programme, where we will be operating from Sally Mugabe Hospital,” Dr Madzima said.
“The programme has been initiated by donors, who are based in South Korea, through Africa Future Foundation and Vision Care.
“This programme is supported by the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the University of Zimbabwe and we are going to be operating from the 2nd to the 4th of July.
“However, screening has already started and will continue until Monday 1st of July.”
Online Reporter