Online Reporter
Farness Moyana in Hwange
ACCESS to quality eye health care in Matabeleland North has received a major boost following the official opening of the St. Patrick’s Vision Centre at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Hwange yesterday.
The cost of the facility has been pegged at US$10 000, and it is the third facility in Matabeleland North after one in Binga and Lupane
The milestone marks a new chapter in efforts to bring essential vision services closer to rural and underserved communities.
Speaking at the event, Provincial Medical Director for Matabeleland North, Dr Admire Kuretu, hailed the initiative as a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that no one is left behind due to preventable blindness or visual impairment.
“It is a great honour to celebrate this remarkable milestone in our journey to expand access to quality eye health services.
“The St. Patrick’s Vision Centre stands as a symbol of hope, partnership and progress,” said Dr Kuretu.
The new vision centre is the result of a strong partnership between the Zimbabwe Council for the Blind (ZCfB), St. Patrick’s Mission Hospital, Lions Clubs International, and the One Sight Essilor Luxottica Foundation.
“It is equipped to provide comprehensive eye care services, including refractive error correction, cataract and minor eye surgeries, eye screenings, and referrals for specialised treatment.”
Dr Kuretu commended the partners for their longstanding commitment to restoring sight and improving lives.
“Your partnership has turned vision into reality — quite literally,” he said, thanking the Lions Clubs International and the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation for their continued support through equipment, instruments and eyeglasses. As part of the opening, 60 patients from Hwange rural and urban underwent cataract operations, with the broader goal of reaching over 10 000 people in Hwange District.
“Good vision restores independence, opportunity and dignity,” added Dr Kuretu. “When we restore sight, we restore hope.”
The St. Patrick’s Vision Centre is expected to serve as a lasting legacy of collaboration and community care, bringing light both physical and spiritual to thousands across the region.
