A team of Sudanese eye doctors arrived in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, on Saturday as part of a free eye treatment campaign set to begin Monday at Juba Teaching Hospital.
The campaign is supported by the Sudan branch of Al-Basar International Foundation in collaboration with the African Cooperation Association.
Abu Ubaidah Mokhtar, director of medical campaigns for Al-Basar International Foundation’s Sudan sector, said the initiative aims to screen 8,000 patients, perform 800 surgeries and distribute 2,000 pairs of eyeglasses.
“We are happy to be in Juba to carry out this campaign,” he said. “This effort is supported by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, South Sudan’s Ministry of Health and our partners in the African Cooperation Association.”
Dr. Aja Paul Kuol, an ophthalmologist and head of the South Sudan ophthalmological association, welcomed the team’s arrival.
“Your presence in South Sudan is highly welcomed and valued by the country’s leadership,” she said.
The medical team will work at Juba Teaching Hospital from Monday through July 11, providing eyeglasses, surgeries and treatment to hundreds of patients.
Yahya Mohammed Osman, head of media and culture at Sudan’s embassy in Juba, said the campaign strengthens medical ties between Sudan and South Sudan.
“This is part of our support for those in need of specialized eye care,” he said, adding that similar campaigns will expand to other regions beyond Juba.
This marks the second time Al-Basar International Foundation has conducted such a campaign in South Sudan.