The Catholic Diocese of Wau has successfully treated more than 3,000 patients through its 2026 eye care campaign. Conducted in collaboration with national and state health authorities, the campaign provided medical treatment to individuals suffering from cataracts and raised awareness about the importance of eye health in local communities. The initiative covered three locations: Wau, Kuajok, and Tonj.

The eye care campaign was led by a specialist team from the diocese's Health Department. According to Tatiana Gerber, health adviser to the Catholic Diocese of Wau, the team successfully operated on over 3,000 people. The campaign also extended its services to vulnerable groups, including prison inmates and 25 individuals from the Agok area. Gerber expressed gratitude to the bishop for his leadership and support in organizing the campaign.

Beneficiaries who regained their sight expressed their gratitude to the diocese for providing treatment. One beneficiary praised the diocese, stating, "I am very happy. They have helped us a lot because we can now see again." The Catholic Diocese of Wau's efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of those affected by visual impairments.

Western Bahr el Ghazal State's caretaker health minister, Joseph Moses Ugudo, commended the Catholic Church for its contributions to healthcare delivery and community development. He acknowledged the church's consistent support for the community through various initiatives, including the eye care campaign. Ugudo pledged continued cooperation with the church and humanitarian organizations to improve healthcare services.

Bishop Matthew Remijio Adam of the Catholic Diocese of Wau praised the diocese's Health Department for organizing the campaign. He emphasized that restored eyesight would enable beneficiaries to participate more fully in family and community life. The bishop noted that people with visual impairments face additional challenges in earning a living and supporting their families amid the country's economic difficulties.

Bishop Adam urged beneficiaries to follow medical advice and doctors' instructions after surgery to protect their eyesight. He highlighted the importance of eyesight, stating that it is essential for individuals to work and sustain a livelihood. The bishop's guidance aims to ensure that the beneficiaries maintain their newly restored vision.

The Catholic Diocese of Wau's eye care campaign has made a significant impact on the lives of over 3,000 individuals. The initiative not only provided medical treatment but also promoted awareness about eye health in local communities. The diocese's efforts have been recognized by the government and beneficiaries alike, with many expressing gratitude for the support provided.

Key points

  • The Catholic Diocese of Wau treated over 3,000 patients with cataracts and promoted eye health awareness in Wau, Kuajok, and Tonj.
  • The campaign extended services to vulnerable groups, including prison inmates and individuals from the Agok area.
  • The initiative was conducted in collaboration with national and state health authorities.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.