Restoring sight in Uganda: Nyangan’s story

Thanks to your support, we’re getting closer to building a strong, sustainable eye care system for everyone.

In Uganda, Sightsavers’ inclusive eye health programme is making sure older people, women, people with disabilities and those living in rural areas can get vital eye care. The programme has raised awareness of common eye conditions and improved local health care by providing medical equipment and training for eye health workers.

As the word spreads about free eye care, many people are seeking treatment for common conditions such as cataracts, which can cause blurred vision and lead to blindness. Nyangan is just one of the people whose life has been transformed through the programme.

Before she developed cataracts, 89-year-old Nyangan was self-sufficient and lived alone in her village. She was able to tend her garden, look after her granddaughter and earn a living by doing small jobs for her neighbours.

Despite visiting the hospital regularly for help with her mobility issues, Nyangan couldn’t get treatment for her failing eyesight. Her vision became so poor that she couldn’t see her front door, leaving her unable to leave home or collect water and firewood.

But through Sightsavers’ programme, Nyangan was able to visit a hospital where she was diagnosed with cataracts. Now, after her successful cataract operation, she can see clearly again. Nyangan has regained her independence and become closer to her family.

In many countries such as Uganda, there aren’t enough eye specialists to treat everyone. Our inclusive eye health programme provides scholarships for students such as Dr Hawa, who is training to be an ophthalmologist.

Many health workers who want to study ophthalmology can’t afford the tuition fees and often juggle their studies alongside work and caring for family. The scholarships enable them to get clinical training and become fully qualified within three years. This investment in the local health care service means high-quality eye care is available in communities for years to come.

Dr Hawa said: “There’s a lot to do, but I’m happy to be part of it. This programme gives me the courage that things can be better.”

Images © Sightsavers/Martin Kharumwa