Restoring vision for 450 patients across three regions

The Rundu Intermediate Hospital has launched a week long cataract surgical campaign aimed at restoring sight for 450 patients.The campaign is particularly aimed at elderly residents across the Kavango East, Kavango West and Zambezi regions and is running from 13 to 20 June.Kavango East governor Hamunyera Hambyuka emphasised that the campaign symbolises a broad, multi sector partnership.“Vision is one of our most precious senses, and yet countless individuals in our community continue to suffer from a preventable and treatable eye condition,” he said.“This campaign is not just about eye health, it is about empowering individuals, strengthening families and building a healthier, more inclusive society,” he added.Overcoming hurdles The hospital’s superintendent, Dr Theresia Shivera, praised the local ophthalmology team at the launch of the campaign.“Despite having two ophthalmic clinical officers at Intermediate Hospital Rundu and one at Andara District Hospital, this team has demonstrated what we can achieve amidst the challenges in a resource constrained environment,” Shivera said.She commended the department of ophthalmology, under the leadership of Dr Andreas Shipanga, the control health programme officer at the health ministry, for extending services across the three regions.Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March this year, the team had screened 16 891 cases and performed roughly 700 surgeries.Teamwork necessary Dr Shivera also stressed the importance of collaboration. She acknowledged support from visiting ophthalmologists, including from Germany, and the theatre and clinical teams who travelled from as far afield as Omaheke and Oshana.“Not only does your team restore vision, but it gives them confidence,” she said. “I’ve also seen the kind of care and attention that they get is really commendable.”She expressed hope that the legacy established by Dr Helena Ndume and colleagues continues beyond their tenure.

Restoring vision for 450 patients across three regions

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-05

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Restoring vision for 450 patients across three regions

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-05

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