From December 2 to 7, 2024, Belgian specialists performed strabismus surgeries at the Kabgayi Eye Unit in collaboration with the international organization Light for the World Belgium. Their efforts focused on diagnosing and treating patients, performing surgeries, and offering consultations, particularly for individuals affected by strabismus, a condition that disrupts proper eye alignment.
Dr. Tuyisabe Theophile, the hospital’s director, shared with ICK News that the visit served to strengthen partnerships and enhance the skills of local ophthalmologists, especially those at Kabgayi Eye Hospital.
“Personally, I had reached a certain level of expertise, but there were areas I couldn’t manage. That’s when we consult our partners to identify a specialist and invite them here. This approach enables me to serve Rwandans rather than working abroad, while also expanding my knowledge,” he explained.
Dr. Tuyisabe also shared that this collaboration reduces costs by focusing on bringing specialists to Rwanda rather than sending Rwandan doctors abroad for training.
“We are grateful to our partners because, as the saying goes, ‘No man is an island.’ This reduces costs and ensures that the knowledge remains in the country,” he said.
Mukandayishima Ellarie, a technician at Kabgayi Eye Hospital, worked closely with the visiting specialists expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained during the initiative.
“I learned a lot, particularly about strabismus diagnosis and identifying the exact issue a patient has without much difficulty. This will enable me to assist Dr. Tuyisabe in performing surgeries in the future,” she said.
Dr. Daisy Godts, a Belgian specialist with 40 years of experience in treating strabismus, highlighted the mutual benefits of this collaboration.
“Whenever Kabgayi Hospital encounters a complex case, they can consult me via WhatsApp, and we solve the problem together. This interaction is enriching for both sides,” she said.
Dr. Godts commended Rwanda’s progress in advancing eye care services, stating:
“Rwanda is truly advancing. Compared to other countries, Kabgayi Eye Hospital stands out for its skilled doctors, well-organized structure, and excellent services. Rwanda is on the right track.”
However, she emphasized the need for an increased number of specialists trained to perform strabismus surgeries in Rwanda.
Gratitude from Patients’ Families
Parents like Josiane Umutesi and Mariya Savera, whose children underwent strabismus surgeries, shared their heartfelt gratitude to Kabgayi Eye Hospital for their efforts.
“Treating strabismus independently is costly due to consultations, tests, surgeries, and more. We wouldn’t have been able to afford it, but we thank the hospital for helping our children,” they expressed.
Although the surgeries did not resolve all health issues immediately, the parents reported visible improvements and remained hopeful for full recovery.
“We are confident that when we return for follow-ups, our children will be healed. We trust this hospital entirely,” they said.
They also urged other parents to seek medical assistance promptly when they notice early signs of eye problems in their children rather than waiting until the condition worsens.
Martin-Luther Rotsaert, the representative of Light for the World Belgium in Rwanda, highlighted the importance of the partnership with Kabgayi Eye Hospital.
“This collaboration has visibly improved access to necessary eye treatments while empowering local doctors to continue their work effectively,” he said.
Rotsaert noted the success of recent efforts, adding:
“For example, this week alone, around 100 patients were screened for strabismus, demonstrating the value of such initiatives.”
Over the course of the week, Kabgayi Eye Hospital screened to over 100 patients and performed 49 surgeries. According to a 2023 report by Light for the World, the organization has facilitated surgeries for 22,198 individuals across several countries and supported 1,618 children in returning to school after receiving treatment.
