Zimbabwean Cataract Patients Regain Vision Through “Bright Journey” Program
The “Bright Journey” program launched in Harare, Zimbabwe, on February 26, 2025, provides free cataract surgeries to 600 patients. Case studies include Mariya Sangare, an 80-year-old who regained her vision, and Cosmas Chipengo, who can now resume work. The initiative addresses a significant public health issue while enhancing Zimbabwe’s medical expertise through China’s assistance.
On February 26, 2025, in Harare, Zimbabwe, the “Bright Journey” program was officially launched, facilitating free cataract surgeries for 600 patients. One notable recipient, 80-year-old Mariya Sangare, expressed her elation, stating, “I can now see everything clearly. There is nothing I cannot see.” This initiative, supported by a team of 12 specialists from China’s Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital, aims to restore vision to those suffering from blurriness due to cataracts.
The program began on February 12, providing patients with renewed independence and hope for a better future. Sangare highlighted the significance of her regained vision, saying it allows her to tend to her farm, which she could not do due to her cataracts. Another beneficiary, 25-year-old Cosmas Chipengo, echoed similar sentiments, remarking on how the surgery enabled him to return to work after seven months of incapacitation.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health and Child Care, Douglas Mombeshora, addressed the public health challenge posed by cataracts, stating, “This moment represents not merely the commencement of a medical project, but the beginning of a bright journey.” The World Health Organization reported an alarming 125,000 individuals in Zimbabwe were living with blindness, with 62,500 cases attributed to cataracts, emphasizing the necessity of this initiative.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, remarked that the program underscores China’s dedication to global health cooperation and strengthens the longstanding friendship between the two nations. This year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 40th anniversary of medical cooperation between China and Zimbabwe, which lends further significance to the launch of the “Bright Journey” program.
The “Bright Journey” program in Zimbabwe represents a significant step towards reducing preventable blindness among its citizens. By providing free cataract surgeries, the initiative not only restores sight but also empowers patients to reclaim their autonomy and engage fully in society. Furthermore, it symbolizes the ongoing collaboration between China and Zimbabwe in advancing health and medical practices.
Original Source: english.news.cn
