Lupane, (New Ziana) – Good eye health creates a ripple effect that impacts the lives of individuals, families and communities, ultimately enabling nations to thrive while reducing poverty and inequality, SightSaversZimbabwe said on Thursday.
The organization’s country director, Peter Bare, made these remarks during the handover of ophthalmic equipment valued at $72,910 to St. Luke Hospital, through the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare.
The equipment was made available through the Embassy of Japan’s grant assistance for the Grassroot Humanitarian Projects Scheme.
Sight Savers has been operating in Zimbabwe since the 1950s, working hand in hand with the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare to deliver inclusive healthcare services.
“This advanced ophthalmic equipment will significantly enhance the capacity of St. Luke’s Hospital to provide essential eye care services not only in Lupane but throughout the entire Matebeleland region and beyond.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support for this program. It is vital we do all we can to tackle avoidable blindness and visual impairment, as it means children can learn and adults can earn.
“Eye health creates a ripple effect on the lives of individuals, families, and communities, helping nations to thrive and reduce poverty and inequality,” he said.
Bare explained that their collaboration with the government has always been guided by the National Development Strategies, ensuring that their efforts align with the country’s vision for healthier living and a more equitable future.
“Today we celebrate not just the handover of equipment, but the shared commitment to improving eye health for all Zimbabweans.
“Our journey together has seen many achievements, one of the most notable being the development of Zimbabwe’s first National Eye Health Strategy.
“This initiative has laid a strong foundation for comprehensive eye care across the country, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to support the Ministry of Health in its implementation,” he said.
Bare highlighted that the equipment will empower healthcare professionals at St. Luke Hospital to deliver high-quality eye care.
“This is not just about equipment, it is about transforming lives and fostering a healthier, more inclusive community,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Japan for the grant assistance for the Grassroot Humanitarian Projects Scheme.
“Your contribution is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between Japan and Zimbabwe, and we are truly grateful for your partnership,” said Bare.
He affirmed his organization’s unwavering commitment to eliminating avoidable blindness in the country.
New Ziana
