By Kuda Pembere
At least 300 patients have been selected for cataract surgery during an ongoing screening at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where a team of Chinese and local doctors are conducting a free Eye Camp under the Bright Journey program.
In its third installment, the Bright Journey Eye Camp aims to perform surgeries on 600 patients. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Dr. Boniface Macheka, the head of ophthalmology at Sekugu Kaguvi Eye Hospital, encouraged more people to come for screening.
He mentioned that the screening, which began this Monday, has already identified approximately 300 patients eligible for surgery. Dr. Macheka also explained that the screening would pause on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday expected to see a large influx of people for screening.
We are confident that next week, from the 24th, as surgeries begin, there will also be concurrent screenings for new patients. We are hopeful that we will reach our target of 600 patients. Our goal is to perform an average of 120 surgeries per day to meet the 600-patient target within the first five to six days,” he said.
“If we can complete the target in five days, that would be ideal. If not, we will extend the screening and surgeries until Saturday, March 1st. That’s our plan for the Bright Journey camp,” he added.
The Chinese team leader, Hong Xiuqin, stated that they brought equipment, consumables, and medications worth US$600,000, which they will donate to the Eye Hospital at Parirenyatwa.
“This year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe and the 40th anniversary of our bilateral medical cooperation. China has sent 12 medical experts, bringing nearly $600,000 worth of medical devices, instruments, and medications,” Hong said.
“Our team will use advanced cataract surgical techniques to perform free surgeries for 600 Zimbabwean cataract patients, restoring their vision and hope. Additionally, Chinese experts will engage in academic exchanges with Zimbabwean ophthalmologists, sharing knowledge of cutting-edge cataract treatments to improve local healthcare standards. We hope this project will strengthen the friendship between China and Zimbabwe,” she added.
“The advanced equipment will be donated to the hospital and will be used in the future, providing high-quality services to the local people. We also hope for more future cooperation between our two governments, particularly in the field of medical collaboration,” she said.
