By Infora Media
Bukedea — The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp entered its second day with an overwhelming turnout at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where more than 5,000 people have so far sought free eye care services. The three-day outreach, organised by the Ruparelia Foundation in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, has already delivered critical treatment to at least 1,500 patients, including over 125 successful eye surgeries.
Speaking during the second day of the camp, Dr Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University Kampala, described the initiative as both life-changing for patients and an opportunity for students to gain hands-on medical experience. He noted that students from the university were supporting doctors by dispensing glasses, conducting check-ups, and assisting in surgical procedures under supervision.
Dr Muganga highlighted the significance of the free services, noting that many beneficiaries would otherwise be unable to afford specialised eye treatment. He explained that surgical procedures in private facilities can cost millions of shillings, making the outreach a major relief for vulnerable communities. According to him, the provision of surgeries, medication, and corrective lenses at no cost represents a major milestone for residents in and around Bukedea.
He commended the Ruparelia Foundation for financing and coordinating the outreach, describing it as an example of impactful philanthropy aimed at restoring both sight and dignity. Dr Muganga also acknowledged the role of Anita Among in mobilising communities to attend the camp, noting that her support contributed to the high turnout witnessed over the first two days.
The Vice Chancellor further praised the medical teams, volunteers, and students for their dedication, saying their efforts had enabled the camp to serve large numbers of patients efficiently. He noted that the outreach had attracted participants from different parts of the country, including eastern and northern Uganda, as well as neighbouring Kenya, reflecting the demand for specialised eye care services in underserved areas.
Medical teams at the camp are providing screening, diagnosis, medication, prescription glasses, and surgical interventions for complex conditions. Patients requiring minor treatment are given medication, while those with severe conditions are scheduled for surgery.
Dr Muganga confirmed that the outreach, which began on Friday, March 27, will run until Sunday, March 29, with services continuing daily. He encouraged those who had not yet attended to visit the facility to benefit from the free services.
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp has emerged as one of the largest free medical outreaches in the region, bringing hope and restored vision to thousands who had long struggled to access affordable eye care.