Qatar Charity (QC) recently completed a two-week eye care campaign in Somalia, providing specialized medical services to more than 600 patients affected by various eye diseases. The initiative took place at Jalkayo General Hospital in collaboration with the Galmudug State Ministry of Health and focused on serving vulnerable populations, including residents of Jalkayo city, surrounding rural communities, and internally displaced persons.

During the campaign, over 600 individuals received comprehensive eye examinations and diagnoses. More than 300 patients were provided with free medications and treatments, while 150 cataract removal and lens implantation surgeries were successfully performed. In addition, medical eyeglasses were distributed to over 60 patients to restore vision and improve daily functioning amid limited access to ophthalmic care and prohibitive treatment costs.

Abdulfattah Adam Moallim, director of Qatar Charity’s Somalia office, highlighted the campaign’s reflection of the organization’s commitment to assisting vulnerable groups. He emphasized the substantial unmet need for ophthalmology and surgical eye care services throughout the region. According to Moallim, restoring vision goes beyond medical treatment; it restores independence and the capacity for individuals to reengage fully in their lives. He also expressed appreciation for the donors whose support directly contributed to these outcomes.

Officials from the Ministry of Health’s Jalkayo Directorate noted the campaign’s positive impact in reducing the strain on both patients and local health facilities. Abshir Issa, a health official, underscored the necessity of continued interventions to address the increasing demand for eye care across the region.

Dr. Saeed Hassan Jidi, head of the medical team, described managing advanced cataract cases and confirmed the successful completion of all surgical procedures, accompanied by essential post-operative care. He pointed out that many patients had suffered vision loss for years due to the unaffordability of treatment and lack of specialist services.

One notable beneficiary was 80-year-old Alad Kibal, who had been blind for six years due to cataracts. His condition had severely limited his daily activities and social interaction. Following surgery in both eyes during the campaign, Kibal regained his sight. Reflecting on the experience, he described the moment his bandages were removed as a “return to life,” marking his ability to once again see his environment and relatives.

This eye care initiative is part of a broader health effort by Qatar Charity in Somalia. Over the past year, the organization implemented 24 health projects across the country, benefiting more than 143,000 people with an investment exceeding QR9 million.