By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone—In a commendable effort to combat avoidable blindness, Choithram Memorial Hospital has partnered with the Ministry of Health to launch a Free Cataract Surgical Camp, an initiative that has already transformed lives across Sierra Leone. During a media briefing on Thursday, April 24, 2025, the hospital shared updates on the program’s remarkable progress, showcasing its life-changing impact on beneficiaries.
Harish Agnani, a key proponent of the project, revealed the ambitious scope of the initiative, which spans a four-month period and is supported by a team of Indian medical specialists. “So far, we have successfully conducted 190 cataract surgeries and screened 2,000 individuals,” Agnani stated, emphasizing the program’s commitment to restoring sight for those suffering from visual impairments.
The ultimate goal is to complete 1,000 cataract surgeries, with access extended to patients from all corners of Sierra Leone. The program also offers transportation allowances for those traveling from the provinces, along with meal stipends of NLe 400 for each patient during their stay in Freetown.
The initiative is made possible through the collaboration of the Ministry of Health and Choithram International Foundation, with support from Choithram Netralaya in India. This partnership enables the arrival of highly skilled health professionals who perform surgeries and address complex eye conditions such as retinal detachment and glaucoma, discovered during the screening process.
Dr. Lloyd Harrison-Williams from the Ministry of Health highlighted the national importance of tackling cataract-related blindness, which accounted for 59.4% of cases in Sierra Leone by 2021, particularly among individuals aged 50 and above. He urged stakeholders from various sectors to work together in reducing the prevalence of cataract blindness.
The initiative’s holistic approach also aims to raise awareness about glaucoma, which Dr. Harrison-Williams explained is often genetic and difficult to detect in its early stages. “We recommend regular eye check-ups and a diet rich in vegetables and nuts to promote eye health,” he advised.
Beneficiaries of the free cataract surgeries expressed their gratitude for the program, which has not only restored their vision but also renewed their hope and improved their quality of life.
This collaboration between Choithram Memorial Hospital and the Ministry of Health exemplifies the potential of public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare in Sierra Leone. With continued support and coordinated efforts, the country is poised to make significant strides in reducing avoidable blindness and enhancing the overall health of its people.