By Spy Uganda
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp today entered its second day with overwhelming turnout at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where more than 5,000 people have so far turned up to access free eye care services.
Organised in memory of Rajiv Ruparelia and spearheaded by the Ruparelia Foundation, the three-day outreach has already delivered critical services to at least 1,500 patients, including 125 successful eye surgeries.
Speaking on Day Two, Dr. Lawrence Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University and one of the lead organisers, hailed the initiative as both life-changing for patients and a learning opportunity for medical students from Victoria University.
“Our students from Victoria University are dispensing glasses, doing checkups for different patients, and carrying out surgeries. It is amazing work, and at the same time, they are gaining hands-on experience to become even better health workers,” Dr Muganga said.
He emphasized 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 hospitals in Kampala can cost between 3 million and 15 million shillings. But here, patients are receiving surgeries, glasses, and medication for free. This is a huge milestone for the people of Bukedea,” he explained.
Dr Muganga also commended the Ruparelia Foundation for financing and coordinating the outreach, describing it as a powerful example of impactful philanthropy.
“The Ruparelia Foundation has demonstrated what it truly means to give back to society. This initiative is not only restoring sight but also restoring dignity and hope to thousands of people,” he said.
He further praised the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, for her support in mobilising communities and ensuring the success of the camp.
“We are grateful to Rt. Hon. Anita Among for her leadership and commitment to her people. Her support has been instrumental in mobilising the community and making sure those in need are able to access these vital services,” Dr Muganga noted.
The Vice Chancellor also paid tribute to the medical teams and volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver care to the massive crowds.
“I want to sincerely thank all the doctors, nurses, students, and volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to serve here. Their sacrifice and compassion are the backbone of this entire operation,” he added.
The camp has attracted patients from across Uganda and beyond, highlighting the urgent demand for specialized eye care in underserved communities.
“We have seen people coming from as far as Kenya, Gulu, Mbale, Kumi, Soroti and other different regions across the country. This shows the magnitude of need for such services, not just in Bukedea but across the entire Teso region,” Dr Muganga noted.
Medical teams at the camp are providing a wide range of services, including eye screening, diagnosis, medication, prescription of glasses, and surgical interventions for more complex conditions.
Patients requiring minor treatment receive eye drops and medication, while others are fitted with corrective lenses or 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 until 6:00 p.m.
“To those who have not yet come, you still have an opportunity tomorrow. If you or a family member has a vision problem or needs surgery, please come to Bukedea Teaching Hospital and get help,” he urged.
The Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp stands out as one of the largest free medical outreaches in the region, bringing hope, healing, and restored vision to thousands, many of whom had long suffered in silence due to the high cost of treatment.
