By Musisi Lwanga
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp entered its second day on Saturday with an overwhelming turnout at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where more than 5,000 people have so far accessed free eye care services.
Organised in memory of Rajiv Ruparelia and led by the Ruparelia Foundation, the three-day outreach has already provided critical services to at least 1,500 patients, including 125 successful eye surgeries.
Speaking on Day Two, Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University and one of the lead organisers, hailed the initiative as life-changing for patients and an invaluable learning opportunity for medical students.
“Our students from Victoria University are dispensing glasses, conducting checkups, and even performing surgeries. It is amazing work, and at the same time, they are gaining hands-on experience to become better health workers,” Dr. Muganga said.
He highlighted the significance of the free services, noting that many beneficiaries would otherwise be unable to afford such care.
“Some people know the cost of this kind of treatment. A single surgery in Kampala can cost between 3 million and 15 million shillings. Here, patients are receiving surgeries, glasses, and medication completely free. This is a huge milestone for the people of Bukedea,” he explained.
Dr. Muganga also praised the Ruparelia Foundation for financing and coordinating the outreach, describing it as a model of impactful philanthropy.
“The Ruparelia Foundation is not only restoring sight but also dignity and hope to thousands of people,” he said.
He further commended the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, for her role in mobilising communities and ensuring the camp’s success.
“We are grateful to Rt. Hon. Anita Among for her leadership and commitment. Her support has been instrumental in helping those in need access these vital services,” Dr. Muganga noted.
The Vice Chancellor also paid tribute to the medical teams and volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes.
“I sincerely thank all the doctors, nurses, students, and volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy. Their compassion is the backbone of this operation,” he added.
The camp has drawn patients from across Uganda and beyond, underscoring the urgent need for specialized eye care in underserved regions.
“We have seen people from as far as Kenya, Gulu, Mbale, Kumi, Soroti, and other regions. This shows the magnitude of need, not just in Bukedea but across the Teso region,” Dr. Muganga said.
Medical teams at the camp are providing comprehensive services, including eye screening, diagnosis, medication, prescription glasses, and surgical interventions for complex conditions. Patients requiring minor treatment receive eye drops and medication, while others are fitted with corrective lenses or scheduled for surgery.
The outreach, which began on Friday, March 27, will continue through Sunday, March 29, with services available daily until 6:00 p.m.
“To those who have not yet come, there is still an opportunity tomorrow. If you or a family member has a vision problem, come to Bukedea Teaching Hospital and get help,” he urged.
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp stands as one of the largest free medical outreaches in the region, bringing hope, healing, and restored vision to thousands who had long suffered in silence due to the high cost of treatment.
