A free cataract outreach programme in Sierra Leone performed 1,522 surgeries and screened or consulted more than 5,768 adults between March and August 2026, according to programme organisers.
The initiative is delivered by Choithram International Foundation in partnership with Noor Dubai Foundation, the Ministry of Health and Choithram Memorial Hospital.
During the second phase, 2,460 people also received medical treatment, while 17 eye-care professionals were trained in clinical and surgical roles to strengthen the country’s eye-health workforce.
The programme provides cataract surgery, medication, transport, accommodation and follow-up care free of charge.
Cataracts remain a leading cause of blindness in Sierra Leone. The programme cites a 2021 Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness study, which found that 5.4 per cent of adults aged over 50 were blind, with cataracts accounting for nearly 60 per cent of cases.
A peer-reviewed study published in BMJ Open on 9 October 2026 evaluated the programme’s first implementation cycle, conducted between February and August 2025. The study reported that 9,117 people were screened and 1,433 cataract surgeries were performed during that period.
Among 271 patients with complete follow-up assessments, researchers recorded an average 17-point improvement in vision-related quality of life, particularly in mental health and near- and distance-vision activities.
However, the study also identified challenges, including shortages of trained personnel, transport difficulties, incomplete clinical records and low attendance for postoperative follow-up. Only 19 per cent of patients returned for their one-month follow-up assessment.
The researchers said the findings highlighted the need to strengthen referral systems, follow-up care and programme management alongside the delivery of surgeries.
The programme’s organisers say the outreach has helped patients regain independence and return to daily activities. One beneficiary, Isatu Kamara, said she was pleased with the improvement in her right eye and hoped to return for surgery on her left eye.
The initiative is now preparing for its third phase, scheduled for January to April 2027. Organisers are targeting between 2,500 and 3,000 cataract surgeries during the period.
Screening activities began on 1 September, with a focus on rural communities where access to eye-care services remains limited.
The next phase will also build on training provided to Sierra Leonean eye-care professionals, with continued mentorship from Choithram Netralaya in India.
The programme aims to expand access to cataract treatment while strengthening local capacity to deliver eye-care services over the long term.
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