9/14/2026
As part of its ongoing Ibsar (Eyesight) Initiative to combat eye diseases and prevent avoidable blindness, and with the support of generous donors in Qatar, Qatar Charity (QC) has concluded a specialized eye care and surgery campaign in Zanzibar, Tanzania, benefiting 3,879 people. The organization is also preparing to launch a cochlear implant project in Dar es Salaam as part of its efforts to expand access to specialized healthcare services for vulnerable communities.
High Demand
The campaign was implemented from 29 August to 4 September 2026 at Kinduni Health Center in North Zanzibar and Sebuleni Health Center in the West Urban Region, in partnership with Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) and the relevant government authorities.
The number of beneficiaries significantly exceeded the initial target of 2,050 people, highlighting the strong demand for specialized healthcare services in the region.
The campaign provided comprehensive eye care services, including eye examinations, medication, and the distribution of more than 415 prescription eyeglasses. In addition, medical teams performed 404 cataract surgeries, helping hundreds of patients regain their sight and improve their quality of life.
Mobile Surgical Unit
A key feature of the campaign was the use of a specialized mobile surgical unit for cataract operations, bringing advanced ophthalmic services closer to patients and reducing the need for long-distance travel to access treatment.
Official Appreciation
The Urban District Commissioner, Hassan Khamis Hafidh, praised the partnership between the Government of Zanzibar, Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), and Qatar Charity, noting that it enabled residents to access specialized eye care services closer to their communities.
During the closing ceremony, The Regional Commissioner of the West Urban Region, Mohammed Ali Abdalla, emphasized the initiative’s positive impact on improving access to treatment and expressed the Government of Zanzibar’s appreciation for the partnership in strengthening healthcare services.
For her part, The Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, Dr. Delilah Kimambo, said the campaign’s success reflected the partners’ commitment to delivering specialized healthcare services to people in need wherever they are.
Strengthening Local Capacity
Dr. Amjad Al Tahhan, Director of Qatar Charity’s Tanzania Branch, said the campaign is part of a broader series of healthcare initiatives implemented by the organization across Tanzania and Zanzibar. He added that it will continue supporting local capacity building and expanding specialized medical services.
At the conclusion of the campaign, the Government of Zanzibar, represented by the First Vice President’s Office, awarded Qatar Charity a certificate of appreciation in recognition of its contributions to supporting the rights of persons with disabilities and enhancing healthcare services.
The campaign coincides with preparations for the launch of a cochlear implant project in Dar es Salaam, which is expected to provide beneficiaries with access to specialized healthcare and improve their quality of life.