The Islamic Health Association of Malawi (IHAM) has emphasized the urgent need for improved eye care among Malawians, saying poor eye hygiene is contributing to the rise in cataract cases in the country.

IHAM Executive Director, Hajj Daitoni, said although cataracts are widely known to be age-related, many people are developing the condition earlier due to neglect and lack of proper eye hygiene.

Daitoni was speaking today in Thyolo where IHAM, in partnership with Nkhoma Mission Hospital, is conducting a five-day free eye surgery camp targeting 100 patients. The initiative has been funded by the International Humanitarian Relief Organization and AFAQ Trust.

“Cataract is a very big probe in Malawi. We have conducted camps but we always have a lot of people looking for help. Mostly, the problem is associated with poor hygiene of eyes and also ageing,’ he said.
Ophthalmic Clinical Officer and Cataract Surgeon at Nkhoma Mission Hospital, Ephraim Kambewa, said the eye camps have brought back hope to many Malawians who had lost their vision but could not afford treatment.

“Some patients were completely blind nd they had their stories of how hard it was to live with the problem. This exercise is very important for us Malawians. There a lot of people in the villages with this problem since the service is expensive in other hospitals. But here we are providing treatment, transport and food freely,’ said Kambewa.

One of the beneficiaries, Laston Tsabola from Matekenya Village, Traditional Authority Mbawera, said he struggled for two years due to the condition, which halted his ability to provide for his household.

“My life completely changed. I could not work in the garden or support my family. But after this surgery, I feel like I have been given a second chance,” said Tsabola with a smile.

The free surgeries are expected to continue through this Friday, with the organizations calling on communities to prioritize eye health and seek assistance early to avoid preventable blindness.