NGO gives eyesight for Madiba
Through the project, which was established 13 years ago, more than 5 200 free cataract operations have been performed in South Africa alone.
Just as paint fades with time, vision gradually dulls for individuals who develop cataracts.
This is why Awqaf South Africa has been striving for more than a decade to create a future with vision for those who need it most.
Awqaf South Africa – a developmental non-governmental organisation – in association with the local Islamic Medical Association (IMA) and the Pakistani Community of South Africa, has been running an annual Cataract Project.
Through the project, which was established 13 years ago, more than 5 200 free cataract operations have been performed in South Africa alone.
This year was no different, with Leratong Hospital removing the cataracts of 100 patients during their Nelson Mandela Commemoration Cataract Camp that was held from 14 to 18 July.
According to Awqaf SA’s deputy CEO, Mickaeel Collier, their target was to bestow the gift of sight, at no cost, to at least 67 patients by removing their cataracts.
The discharge ceremony of the patients was subsequently held on Mandela Day and welcomed various role-players, including Dr Shabbir Hussain from IMA; Awqaf SA’s Board of Trustees’ chairperson, Haroon Kalla; Awqaf CEO, Zeinoul Cajee, and Akhtar Thoken.
ANC national executive committee member, Senzo Mchunu, and Mogale City Executive Mayor, councillor Naga Patrick Lipudi, also paid a visit along with a great many officials and interested parties.
The Mandela Cataract Camp is fully sponsored by Awqaf SA. Doctors from the IMA and the Pakistani community provide the medical service at no cost.
Mickaeel concluded that more cataract camps will be run in Cape Town, and various rural areas in the near future.
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