HIGH LEVEL DELEGATION VISITS KAMBIA
BY YUSUFU ABU SESAY
In a significant step towards reducing avoidable blindness in the north-western region, a high-level delegation from Sierra Leone’s National Eye Health Program on Monday, January 12, 2026, visited Kambia District to conduct preliminary engagements and assess facilities ahead of the planned Mega Cataract Surgical Camp slated for April 2026.
The upcoming camp, which is expected to serve over 2,000 beneficiaries, is sponsored by a faith-based organization in the United States and is aimed at restoring sight and improving the quality of life for thousands of Sierra Leoneans suffering from cataract-related visual impairment.
The delegation was led by the National Eye Health Programme Manager, Dr. Lloyd Harrison Williams, and included Senior Ophthalmologist, Dr. John Mattia covering the North and North-West regions, a Sierra Leonean Ophthalmologist and Oculo-Plastic Surgeon based in the United States and the visionary behind the initiative, as well as the Programme’s Pharmacist, Dr. Jouel Sandy.
Upon arrival in Kambia, the team was warmly received by the District Health Management Team (DHMT), headed by the District Medical Officer, Dr. Sarah Conteh, alongside the Medical Superintendent of Kambia Government Hospital, Dr. Esther Kpakiwa, and the District Eye Health Focal Person, Mr. Hassan Bangura.
During a strategic meeting, the visiting team outlined the objectives and scope of the April 2026 surgical camp, emphasizing its importance in addressing cataract, one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Sierra Leone.
Speaking on behalf of the district authorities and people of Kambia, Dr. Sarah Conteh expressed profound appreciation for the intervention and assured the delegation of the district’s full support and cooperation to ensure a successful exercise.
The delegation also toured the Kambia Government Hospital and the DHMT compounds to identify suitable locations for key operations during the camp. Areas earmarked for assessment included spaces for a makeshift surgical theatre, sterilization and sluice points, patient registration and congregation zones, as well as camping and recovery sites for patients.
The findings from the assessment visit will now inform the detailed logistical and operational planning required to host the large-scale medical outreach.
The April 2026 Mega Cataract Surgical Camp is expected to mark a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s fight against preventable blindness.
By bringing together national expertise, strong district-level commitment, and international support, the initiative stands as a shining example of how collaboration can transform lives and strengthen public health delivery in the country.