The Eye Centre of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) successfully organized free cataract surgeries for about 64 patients, aimed at restoring sight to individuals affected by cataract-related visual impairment.
A total of 100 patients were screened during the preoperative assessment period. Following medical evaluation, 64 patients were deemed fit and successfully underwent the cataract surgery. The remaining 36 patients were deferred due to underlying health conditions that require further medical management before surgery.
This initiative forms part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to improving eye health and reducing avoidable blindness, particularly among underserved populations.
Cataract remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Ghana, with many affected individuals unable to access surgical treatment due to financial constraints. To support such patients, the Eye Centre, through strategic partnerships, periodically organizes sponsored cataract surgeries to ensure equitable access to quality eye care.
The free cataract surgery was scheduled to coincide with the festive season, reinforcing the hospital’s goal of improving quality of life and social participation for beneficiaries. The exercise was planned for December 19, 2025. The screening session began on December 8th and ran through to December 18th, 2025.
The surgery took place at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital's Eye Centre. A valid National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) card and being at least 18 years old were the prerequisites for eligibility.
The surgical procedures were led by Dr. Andrew Elikem Akafo, Specialist Ophthalmologist, the team lead, and head of Outreach Services at the Eye Centre. He was supported by a team of experienced ophthalmic surgeons.
The team was further assisted by resident doctors in training and dedicated nurses in all the various units, whose contributions ensured smooth and efficient surgical outcomes.
According to Dr. Akafo, the outreach was intentionally organized as a “gift of sight” during the Christmas season, symbolizing hope and renewed life for beneficiaries.
Dr. Akafo highlighted that the outreach program was made possible through a collaboration between Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and an international non-governmental organization under the “Cure Blindness Project.” This partnership continues to play a vital role in supporting patients who cannot afford cataract surgery, thereby significantly reducing the burden of preventable blindness.
Following the surgery, patients were transferred to the recovery care room, where they were closely monitored. Comprehensive postoperative education was provided, focusing on proper eye care and hygiene, medication adherence and activity restrictions to promote healing.
Patients were also given dark glasses to protect the eye from flashes of light and post-surgical medication to ensure optimal recovery.
The free cataract surgery initiative successfully restored sight to 64 individuals, greatly improving their independence, productivity, and overall quality of life.
The Eye Centre remains committed to conducting similar outreach programs as part of its broader mission to eliminate avoidable blindness in Ghana. Continued collaboration with partners and stakeholders is essential to sustaining and expanding these life-changing interventions.
