His Highness Paul Sande Emolot, the Emorimor (Paramount Chief) of the Iteso Cultural Union, has described eye disease as one of Teso Region’s most pressing yet overlooked health challenges, praising the Rajiv Ruparelia (RR) Free Eye Camp for bringing hope to thousands.
The Emorimor made the remarks during a visit on Sunday, March 29, to Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where the three-day outreach was held. Organised in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia and led by the Ruparelia Foundation, the camp has provided free eye care to many who would otherwise struggle to afford treatment.
By the end of the third day, more than 1,400 patients had been screened, 265 cataract surgeries performed including 25 on children and another 235 surgeries are still scheduled, underscoring the urgent need for eye care in the region.
The Emorimor noted that the camp drew patients from beyond Teso, reaching as far as Kenya’s Turkana region. Addressing the Ruparelia family, he said:
“…We have no words to thank you, and apart from appreciating you, we ask God to continue blessing your heart.”
Sheena Ruparelia, trustee of the foundation, highlighted that the turnout exposed a deep and urgent eye care crisis, with thousands seeking life-changing treatment at no cost. She praised the team of 15 doctors from Mulago Hospital and C-Care, along with Ugandan nurses and students from Victoria University, for their tireless work.
“The camp will continue for another three days to complete surgeries, after which patients will be referred to Mbale for ongoing treatment,” she said. “We still have 218 cataract cases waiting, and the foundation is committed to treating every patient.”
She expressed pride that the camp was entirely led by Ugandan professionals:
“We came with 15 doctors, 15 nurses, and students from Victoria University. This camp being 100% Uganda-led is a source of pride. Together, we can do a lot.”
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp has become one of the largest free medical outreaches in Teso, restoring vision and hope to hundreds of people who had long suffered in silence. With cataract surgery costing upwards of five million shillings per eye, the camp offers life-changing care to communities across the region.
