By Infora Media
Bukedea — Thousands of patients have thronged the grounds of Bukedea Teaching Hospital in Bukedea District to benefit from the ongoing RR Eye Camp organised by the Ruparelia Group in honour of the late Rajiv Ruparelia. The outreach has drawn overwhelming numbers while earning praise from organisers, partners, and local leaders for expanding access to specialised eye care services.
Speaking on behalf of the Ruparelia Foundation, Sheena Ruparelia described the fourth edition of the camp as a significant milestone. She said the initiative is screening patients for cataracts and other eye conditions while also providing prescription and reading glasses. She added that this year’s edition has introduced surgeries and prescription glasses for children, a move she described as a major step forward for the outreach.
She explained that handling children’s prescriptions requires additional logistics, with glasses being individually processed in Kampala to suit each patient. According to organisers, the initiative has cost over UGX 2 billion, covering surgeries, glasses, and other essential medical services aimed at delivering comprehensive care.
Sheena emphasised that the camp’s objective is to provide complete treatment rather than limited screening. She noted that a team of 15 Ugandan doctors, including surgeons, has been deployed with full equipment and medication to ensure patients receive on-site services. She added that the turnout had surpassed expectations, with thousands seeking treatment and several already benefiting from surgeries and prescription glasses.
The outreach has also incorporated a blood donation drive, which organisers say has collected dozens of units to support health facilities. Sheena expressed appreciation to partners, including Mulago Hospital, C-Care, Bukedea Teaching Hospital, Anita Foundation, and Victoria University Kampala, for supporting the initiative.
Reflecting on the origins of the programme, Sheena said the eye camp was inspired by the family’s commitment to community service. She noted that this year’s edition was intentionally expanded as a tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia, whose philanthropic work continues to inspire the outreach.
Dr Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University Kampala, commended the camp for providing comprehensive services, including screening, treatment, surgery, glasses, and aftercare. He also highlighted the role of volunteers, including students, in supporting the large number of beneficiaries.
Bukedea MP-elect Beecham Okwere David described the initiative as life-changing, noting that many beneficiaries would otherwise struggle to afford specialised eye treatment. He added that the camp has attracted participants from across eastern Uganda and neighbouring regions, making it a significant healthcare outreach.
As the exercise continues, the combination of high turnout, expanded services, and strong partnerships has positioned the RR Eye Camp as a vital healthcare intervention and a continuation of Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy of compassion and service.