A team of Chinese medical experts has launched a free cataract surgery program at Tirunesh Beijing Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. The initiative, called the China-Ethiopia Brightness Journey, involves a dedicated team of 10 experienced ophthalmologists and nurses from China.
The team aims to perform cataract surgeries for more than 500 patients, with 80 individuals already receiving successful procedures as of Friday. The program, which will last over 20 days, also includes training for local medical professionals in advanced treatment techniques.
Amsale Belay, one of the patients benefiting from the program, expressed her gratitude, saying her eyesight has been fully restored. “I’m so indebted to the medical team. I have been seeking treatment for more than two and a half years at various hospitals, but I found no solution. I was told there was no hope. But now, I have full hope,” she said.
During the launch of the project on Friday, Ethiopian Minister of Health Mekdes Daba emphasized the long-term benefits of the initiative, particularly in building local healthcare skills. “We will be building skills for healthcare professionals here because through the procedures… our community will have an additional shared experience,” she said. “We really, deeply value this project and the support that we are getting.”
Chen Hai, China’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, highlighted that the initiative reflects the strong friendship between the two nations. “The ‘Brightness Journey’ project is a clear indication of our all-weather strategic partnership and deep-rooted friendship,” he said.
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness and vision impairment in Ethiopia, affecting more than five million people, according to the country’s health ministry.