Speaker Rt. Hon. Anita Among Joins Ruparelia Family to Launch Free Eye Camp in Memory of Rajiv

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, on Tuesday evening joined the Ruparelia Foundation and other partners at Kabira Country Club for the official launch of the upcoming RR Eye Camp in Bukedea District, held in honour of the late Rajiv Ruparelia.

Rajiv, a businessman and philanthropist, tragically lost his life in a car accident along Busabala Road in May last year. His passing left a void in Uganda’s business and philanthropic circles, where he had been widely recognized for championing community-focused initiatives, particularly in health and education. 

Speaking during the launch, Jyotsna Ruparelia, Director of the Ruparelia Group, described the forthcoming eye camp as deeply personal to the family.

“This eye camp is special to us because it is in memory of our son Rajiv, who strongly believed in philanthropy and in giving back to society,” she said, adding that the family remains committed to sustaining initiatives that directly uplift vulnerable communities.

The RR Eye Camp, scheduled to take place from Friday, 27th to Sunday, 29th March 2026 at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, is expected to deliver a wide range of free eye care services to residents of Bukedea and surrounding districts.

According to the organisers, the camp targets to:

Provide free eye screenings and basic treatment to at least 2,000 people;

Conduct 300 cataract surgeries;

Carry out 50 specialised surgeries for children;

Offer follow-up care and referrals for complex cases.

Speaker Among commended the Foundation, headed by businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, for complementing government efforts in the health sector by bringing critical services closer to the people.

She noted that such partnerships between the private sector and government are essential in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved communities where specialised medical services remain limited.

“By bringing these services to Bukedea, you are not only restoring sight but also restoring hope and productivity among our people,” she said, emphasizing that improved eye health directly contributes to better educational outcomes, economic participation, and overall community wellbeing.

The choice of Bukedea holds added significance, given the Speaker’s longstanding connection to the district and ongoing efforts to strengthen social services in the area. The eye camp is expected to attract beneficiaries from across the Teso sub-region and beyond.

Health experts highlight that cataracts remain one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Uganda, particularly among the elderly, while children with untreated eye conditions often struggle academically and socially. Initiatives such as the RR Eye Camp therefore play a crucial role in reducing avoidable blindness and improving quality of life.

The launch event brought together members of the business community, health professionals, local leaders, and partners committed to supporting the three-day outreach.

As preparations intensify ahead of the March medical camp, organisers expressed confidence that the initiative will not only transform lives but also honour Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy of compassion, generosity, and service to humanity.