Skip to content

CBM Enhancing Access to Pediatric Eye Health Services in Uganda

Published: 25.03.2025
Joy Koech Head of Inclusive Health Programmes
CBM
The Guest of Honor, Dr. Alex Wasomoka who represented the Minister of Health Dr. Jane Acheng, officially opening the pediatric unit, assisted by representatives from the Archdiocese of Tororo, The Lions Club, CBM and the Hospital Board of Governors
1/1

In a monumental step towards improving pediatric eye care in Uganda, Benedictine Eye Hospital in Tororo officially commissioned its Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Unit on 20th February 2025.

This marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s ongoing efforts to provide specialized, accessible, and high-quality eye care services for children in the region and beyond.

The new unit is poised to address the growing challenges of pediatric eye health, a critical aspect of healthcare in Eastern Uganda. With a focus on early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of childhood eye conditions, the establishment of the Child Eye Health Unit will bring transformative change to the lives of countless children in Uganda.

A Fully Equipped Pediatric Eye Unit

The newly commissioned unit is fully equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities, offering:

  • Pediatric-friendly examination rooms
  • Advanced ophthalmic imaging technology
  • Dispensing Pharmacy
  • Spectacle shop
  • Laser and surgical facilities for pediatric cataract treatment
  • Fully equipped theatres
  • Child friendly wards
  • A dedicated pediatric ophthalmology team, including specialists trained in childhood eye diseases
  • Support services such as vision rehabilitation and low vision aids
  • A child-friendly environment designed to reduce anxiety and ensure comfort for young patients and their families

Rev. Bro. Peter Dramadri, Executive Director of Benedictine Eye Hospital, shared that the establishment of the new pediatric eye care unit was in direct response to the growing demand for specialized care in the region.

“We have seen rising numbers of children suffering from preventable and treatable eye conditions. Sadly, many have lacked access to proper medical attention, leading to unnecessary vision loss,” he explained.

With its state-of-the-art facilities, expert team, and focus on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, the unit is a beacon of hope for families affected by childhood eye conditions, ensuring that every child in Uganda has the opportunity for a brighter future.

Special thanks to RTL/SDL (Lions International) for funding support towards the construction and equipping of the unit.

Cutting of the ribbon - from left to right: Jackie Kwesiga (CBM Country Director Uganda), Benon Katate (Lions Club International Uganda - yellow vest), Rev. Fidelis Ignatius Walwema (BEH Board of Governors) and Chief Guest Dr Alex Wasomoka (Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Health in Uganda representing the Minister of Health ). This photo was taken on the day of the comissioning of the Paediatric Eye Unit of the Benedictine Eye Hospital in Tororo, Uganda, on 20 February 2025. This new building and the equipment were made possible by donations from the ‘Stiftung Deutscher Lions’ and the ‘RTL - Wir helfen Kindern’ foundation through CBM (Christoffel Blindenmission Christian Blind Mission e.V.)
After the doors of the new children's eye unit have officially been opened, guests take a first look around the building.
Visit to a playroom: Members of Lion´s rClub International Uganda with the Chief Guest (Dr Alex Wasomoka - Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Health in Uganda, representing the Minister of Health - background)
1/4