In a significant healthcare initiative, 240 patients from the sub-zones of Gelalo, Foro, and Massawa underwent successful eye surgery at Massawa Hospital on Saturday, April 26th.
The impactful program was a collaborative effort between Eritrean medical experts from the Ministry of Health branch in the Northern Red Sea Region, the dedicated medical team at Massawa Hospital, and the ‘Cure Blindness’ ophthalmology group.
Dr. Eyob Beyene, a seasoned eye surgery expert and the coordinator of this vital program, highlighted that this recent initiative was a continuation of a series of similar successful surgeries previously conducted in the sub-zones of Nakfa, Afabet, and Ghinda. This ongoing effort underscores a sustained commitment to addressing eye-related health issues across Eritrea.
Dr. Zemui Mekonnen, the Medical Director of Massawa Hospital, emphasized the meticulous planning that preceded the surgeries. He noted that a comprehensive survey was conducted within the beneficiary sub-zones to identify those in need. Dr. Mekonnen further highlighted that the successful implementation of the program was a direct result of the unwavering commitment and dedication of the medical professionals involved, coupled with the full cooperation and support extended by the local administrations within the region.
Dr. Mengis Baire, the coordinator of the ‘Cure Blindness’ ophthalmology group, expressed his satisfaction with the significant expansion of the project over the past two years. He noted the commendable progress in extending the reach of these crucial services from being initially concentrated in Asmara to now reaching more remote and underserved areas of the country. Dr. Baire also emphasized the particularly noteworthy achievement that the entire program was successfully implemented by Eritrean medical experts, hailing it as a “double-fold victory” for the nation’s healthcare capacity and expertise.
The 240 beneficiaries of the eye surgery program expressed their profound gratitude for the life-changing opportunity provided to them, highlighting the significant impact the restored vision will have on their daily lives and overall well-being.
This successful initiative at Massawa Hospital follows a commendable track record of similar outreach programs. It is worth recalling that a significant number of 539 patients previously benefited from similar eye surgeries conducted at hospitals in Nakfa, Ghinda, and Afabet, further demonstrating the ongoing commitment to improving eye health outcomes for Eritreans across various regions. These efforts collectively highlight the dedication of Eritrean healthcare professionals and collaborating organizations in addressing visual impairments and enhancing the quality of life for communities throughout the country.
ABJ/APA