Bukedea, Uganda: The Ruparelia Foundation’s free eye care camp has been extended into a fifth day at Bukedea Teaching Hospital following overwhelming demand, with thousands of patients turning up for life-changing treatment.
Originally planned as a three-day outreach, the camp, held in memory of the late businessman Rajiv Ruparelia, has now stretched to Wednesday, as organisers race to serve the growing number of beneficiaries from Bukedea, the wider Teso sub-region, and beyond.
Organisers had anticipated treating between 2,000 and 5,000 patients, conducting at least 300 cataract surgeries, and distributing hundreds of corrective glasses.
However, demand quickly surpassed expectations, with more than 3,000 people already receiving treatment as the camp entered its final days.
The initiative, valued at approximately Shs1.7 billion, has delivered all services free of charge, yet a single eye surgery can cost up to Shs5 million, putting it beyond the reach of many Ugandans.
Leaders hail life-changing intervention
Representing Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, Bukedea County MP-elect David Beecham Okwere praised the Ruparelia family and partners for the impactful intervention.
“I applaud Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s family and the Indian community for this great gesture that has enabled thousands to regain their sight free of charge,” Okwere said. “This is the kind of work that leaders across the country must emulate to ensure communities are fully supported.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining partnerships that uplift communities across Bukedea and the Teso region.
Speaking on behalf of the Ruparelia Foundation, Ms Sheena Ruparelia attributed the success of the camp to strong collaboration among stakeholders.
“The success of this camp is a result of strong partnerships, including the support from Rt. Hon. Anita Among and other well-wishers,” she said. “We are humbled by the overwhelming response and remain committed to supporting Ugandans through health, education, and other initiatives.”
Health workers at the facility have been working around the clock to handle the influx of patients, offering screenings, surgeries, and corrective eyewear.
For many beneficiaries, the camp has meant more than medical care; it has restored independence, productivity, and hope.
As the outreach heads into its final day, its impact is already visible in thousands of lives transformed and communities reconnected to opportunity.
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