More than 600 residents turned up for a free eye camp held on Sunday at Majengo Dispensary in Mombasa, far exceeding the organizers’ target of 300 patients.
The event, organized by the Rotary Club – Kilindini in partnership with Lulu ya Jamii and Mombasa Eye Hospital, aimed to provide free eye care services to the community.
“This is the second eye camp we are conducting in Mombasa. The first was in Likoni Sub-county. Given the overwhelming turnout today, we are planning another camp in Mvita Sub-county, which will take place at Mvita Clinic in two to three weeks. We encourage those who missed today’s session to attend the upcoming one,” said Club President Rotarian Anil Dodhia.
Among those screened, several patients were diagnosed with conditions requiring cataract surgery, while others will receive prescription glasses. All follow-up procedures, including surgeries and the issuing of numbered glasses, will be handled at Mombasa Eye Hospital.
“As of now, five patients need cataract surgery, and the number may rise before we conclude at 1 p.m. Today, we’re distributing free reading glasses to those who need them. For patients requiring prescription lenses, we’ll meet again tomorrow at 10 a.m. to proceed to Mombasa Eye Hospital for eye measurements. They will then collect their glasses here at Majengo Dispensary,” added Rtn. Dodhia.
The cataract surgeries will be performed on Monday morning using advanced medical technology.
Pradeep Agarwal from Mombasa Eye Hospital emphasized the importance of regular eye checkups, noting that many people are unaware they have vision problems.
“This is why we organize these free eye camps, to screen patients and refer them to our facility for further tests using the latest equipment. Regardless of the diagnosis, we offer treatment, including surgery, at no cost,” said Agarwal.
“Many people unknowingly live with conditions like glaucoma, which can lead to blindness. These camps help us raise awareness and catch such diseases early,” he added.
Lulu Ya Jamii patron Lulu Hassan urged the public to prioritize regular medical checkups.
“We didn’t expect such a large turnout. Doctors had anticipated a maximum of 300 patients, but we’ve seen more than 600. We’re planning a future camp at a larger clinic since Majengo Dispensary is quite small. This overwhelming response shows a real need, and many people either don’t know they have issues or lack the financial means to seek medical care,” she said.
In addition to eye care, the event also offered screening for other health conditions, including malaria, high blood pressure, and diabetes.