The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Choithram Memorial Hospital, has announced a nationwide free cataract surgery outreach programme, delivered by a visiting team of ophthalmologists from India.

At a press briefing held on Tuesday, 21st April 2026, at Choithram Memorial Hospital, hospital management informed journalists that surgical procedures would commence immediately, with patients scheduled for post-operative reviews the following day. Transportation will be arranged to return patients safely to their homes, while accommodation and logistics for the visiting medical team will be fully supported by the hospital.

Management also highlighted past collaboration efforts, noting that seven nurses from Choithram Hospital were previously sponsored to India for advanced ophthalmic training to strengthen local capacity.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Services, Dr. Mustapha Sundifu Kabba, described the initiative as life-changing and a major contribution to improving the quality of life for many Sierra Leoneans suffering from preventable blindness.

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Dr. Kabba commended the visiting doctors for their dedication and sacrifice, leaving their home institutions to provide care in Sierra Leone, and emphasised the importance of such partnerships in bridging critical service gaps.

He further underscored the role of public-private collaboration in strengthening the health sector, noting that government alone cannot meet all healthcare needs.

“Partnerships with private institutions like Choithram Hospital are essential in expanding access to specialised services, building local capacity, and supporting training opportunities for healthcare workers,” Dr. Kabba said.

He added that the free cataract surgery outreach stands as a strong example of how collaboration can deliver impactful, life-saving interventions and advance national healthcare goals.

The programme is being delivered by the Directorate of Hospital and Ambulance Services (DHAS) in partnership with Choithram Memorial Hospital.