By Infora Media
Bukedea — The grounds of Bukedea Teaching Hospital have been flooded with thousands of residents seeking free eye care at the ongoing RR Eye Camp, organised by the Ruparelia Group in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia. The fourth edition of the initiative has seen unprecedented attendance, drawing praise from organisers, partners, and local leaders for its impact on the region’s healthcare landscape.
Speaking on behalf of the Ruparelia Foundation, Sheena Ruparelia described the camp as a major milestone. “This year, we’re screening for cataracts and general eye conditions, providing prescription and reading glasses, and introducing surgeries for children. Each child’s prescription is individually processed in Kampala, making this edition unique,” she said.
The organisers report that the camp, which has cost over Ugx2 billion, covers surgeries, glasses, and other essential medical services. “Most screening camps in Uganda only examine patients and send them away. Our approach provides full solutions on-site,” Sheena added. A team of 15 Ugandan doctors, including surgeons, has been deployed with full equipment and medication to ensure comprehensive care.
So far, about 2,000 people are waiting to be seen, 300 have been registered, and 10 surgeries, including two for children, have been completed. Dozens of patients have already received prescription glasses, while a blood donation drive held alongside the camp collected 45 units. Sheena also expressed gratitude to partners, including Mulago Hospital, C-Care, Bukedea Teaching Hospital, Anita Foundation, and Victoria University Kampala.
Reflecting on the origins of the outreach, Sheena highlighted the family legacy. “This eye camp was started by our parents. They once told me about a 90-year-old woman who had not seen for over 10 or 15 years, who walked out seeing. That is why we continue this work,” she said, adding that this edition is a deliberate tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia, who always went beyond expectations.
Dr Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University Kampala, praised the camp’s comprehensive structure, noting that patients receive screening, treatment, surgery, glasses, and follow-up care. “The turnout is overwhelming, and volunteers, including university students, have shown remarkable commitment. We hope to expand similar initiatives to other regions,” he said.
Bukedea MP-elect Beecham Okwere David described the initiative as transformative. “This is heart-touching, giving a second chance to people who have struggled with poor vision. Eye treatment is often unaffordable, but this initiative is a lifesaver,” he said, noting that the camp has attracted participants from across eastern Uganda and even neighbouring Kenya.
As the three-day camp continues, its combination of high turnout, expanded services, and personal tributes positions it as both a critical healthcare intervention and a celebration of Rajiv Ruparelia’s enduring legacy of compassion, generosity, and service to Ugandans.