MOGADISHU, Somalia —Mustaqbal Eye Hospital in Mogadishu is offering free eye surgeries and treatment to displaced families as part of World Sight Day activities this week.
The initiative provides cataract surgeries, vision correction procedures, and general eye care to residents in IDP camps and low-income neighborhoods around the Somali capital.
Hospital Director Dr. Abdisamad Hassan Haye said the program supports vulnerable populations lacking access to medical services due to displacement, poverty, and ongoing instability.
“Many of these families face extreme hardship and have no access to health care,” Dr. Haye said. “Restoring sight restores dignity and hope.”
Somalia has one of the world’s highest rates of preventable blindness, with cataracts and untreated conditions affecting millions across urban and rural communities.
Health experts warn access to specialized eye care remains severely limited, especially among communities displaced by conflict, drought, and economic crises across the country.
One of the first patients was Faduma Ali, 62, who received cataract surgery and saw her grandchildren clearly for the first time in years.
“I thought I would die blind,” Faduma said, smiling after surgery. “Now I see again. May God bless these people helping us today.”
World Sight Day, held annually on the second Thursday of October, raises global awareness of avoidable blindness and promotes universal access to eye care.
This year’s theme, “Love Your Eyes at Work,” shows the importance of protecting vision for both health and productivity in everyday life.
Mustaqbal Eye Hospital has previously offered mobile eye care services to expand outreach in underserved communities across Somalia.
Dr. Haye said the hospital remains committed to reaching rural areas where eye care services are either unaffordable or virtually nonexistent.
“Eye care is not a luxury — it’s a basic human right,” he said. “We will continue fighting preventable blindness and helping those in need to restore their vision and see again.”
The hospital plans to continue free treatments through the week, serving hundreds of people who otherwise could not afford or access vision care services.
For patients like Faduma, restored vision brings independence, connection, and renewed hope—offering more than sight, but a second chance at life itself.
