On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, a delegation from Light for the World Belgium, led by CEO Erwin Telemans and Miss Belgium 2024, Kenza Johanna Ameloot, visited the Kabgayi Eye Unit situated in Muhanga District.
Their three-day visit, from Monday to this Wednesday, focused on supporting children with eye diseases, particularly cataract, observing the treatments and marking 25 years of partnership with the eye unit.
Telemans highlighted the significance of their collaboration, stating, ” We wanted to see firsthand the progress of our local partner, Kabgayi Eye Unit, after 25 years of working together.”
He praised the unit’s remarkable work, noting that many children who were once blind now have the opportunity to regain their sight through life-changing surgeries.
“These children return to their communities with the chance to pursue education and careers, potentially becoming teachers or doctors. We are incredibly proud of this transformative work,” Telemans added.
As per Telemans, the main mission of Light for the World is to reduce avoidable blindness, with cataract being a significant contributor.
Regarding this mission, Telemans urged parents to seek medical attention if they notice their child has vision issues, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
Dr. Tuyisabe Theophile, Director of Kabgayi Eye Unit, reaffirmed the importance of the partnership with Light for the World, explaining that the visit allowed their partners to see the impact of their support firsthand.
“Our Belgian partners came to see if what we report is reflected in reality. We want them to become ambassadors for our work, showing the world the importance of inclusive eye care,” he said.
The partnership has been essential in helping the Kabgayi Eye Unit acquire state-of-the-art medical equipment, provide training for doctors, and fund critical surgeries.
“Eye care treatment materials and their maintenance are costly, but Light for the World helps us maintain quality services,” Dr. Tuyisabe added.
Miss Belgium 2024, Kenza Johanna Ameloot, who has Rwandan roots, explained her personal connection to the cause.
“I believe every child has the right to see clearly, achieve their dreams, and go to school. I’m proud to be part of an organization making that change,” she said.
Ameloot emphasized the importance of early cataract treatment, explaining that children who receive surgery early have a better chance of leading normal lives.
“Cataract can cause blindness almost instantly, but with early intervention, these children can regain their sight and build a brighter future,” she added.
Light for the World Belgium is currently partnering with several African countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Rwanda, and Tanzania.
So far, the organization has reached 125,600 people with disabilities through its disability inclusion programs. Additionally, 28,699 students with disabilities have gained access to education, and 51,229 eye operations have been performed.
