The Transformative Impact of the Umbono Eyecare Project and #KeReady Mobile Clinics Echoes Through Rural Eastern Cape

The budding partnership between Small Project Foundation’s (SPF) Umbono Eyecare Project, its Social Employment Fund youth ambassadors, and #KeReady Mobile Clinics became a beacon of hope and transformation in the villages of Butterworth. From the recent joint outreach activities, including the Thafalofefe Hospital and Dondashe health screenings to the heartfelt dedication of the teams, their collaboration continues to yield remarkable results.

For two days, these teams were engaged in a dedicated outreach that brought forth an abundance of compassion and healthcare to the communities of Butterworth and Centane. For the Thafalofefe Hospital outreach, these teams orchestrated a comprehensive screening of 14 schools from various surrounding villages, reaching 293 learners; of whom 38 were identified as needing spectacles.

In addition to this, our optometrist - Johan van Der Merwe conducted low vision screenings for learners facing potential low vision challenges as part of the Bona Ubuntu Programme intervention. As Day 1 unfolded at Thafalofefe Hospital, the primary focus was eye screening and healthcare services tailored to the youth. Two ophthalmology nurses, brimming with enthusiasm, spoke of the positive impact the initiative is extending through essential eye care services to the younger generation. “We hardly have optometrists posted at our hospitals, it is here and there when NGO optoms come to help, that is something we truly appreciate”, said the duo.

The parents echoed these sentiments, sharing their thoughts and experiences. Nokind Gibson revealed, "My child squints when watching TV, something the older sister teases him about. I never realised it was a serious issue until one of the school teachers pointed it out." Adding to the narrative, Nontsikelelo Mpendulo, a teacher accompanying by eager learners, emphasised the import of such initiatives in nurturing the well-being of local youth. She shared, "We as teachers do our part in educating learners about their overall health in Life Orientation, but today, having SPF and KeReady coming to help… I am happy."

Beyond the realms of physical health, the event embraced a holistic approach to well-being. A mental health professional took centre stage, addressing the parents and learners still waiting to be seen and shared the importance of mental health. The groups were enlightened on the significance of self-awareness, fostering a healthy mind, and treating others with empathy and understanding.

The commitment did not wane as the teams journeyed to Centane the following day, for the Dondashe screening where they examined 134 learners. Out of these, 18 were identified as having vision impairments and marked to receive spectacles while two additional learners were referred for further assessment due to low vision problems.

These initiatives exemplify more than just collaboration; they signify a shared commitment to effect positive change where it is needed most. Together, they sow seeds of compassion and healthcare, nurturing brighter futures and leaving an indelible mark in rural communities.