A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Mangal Foundation, has commenced free eye surgery and treatment for over 500 vulnerable people across Katsina State.
A member of the Board of Trustees of the foundation, Hussaini Kabir, disclosed this at the commencement of another tranche of the exercise at the Eye Centre, Katsina, on Saturday.
According to him, during the exercise, which is part of corporate social responsibilities of the foundation, patients with different eye problems will be screened and treated.
He further explained that some of the patients, after the screening, would be given free treatment and drugs, while those that require medical glasses would also be given.
Patients that need surgery will undergo series of investigations; we have commenced the exercise today.
“In our office, we used to register people with health problems, any time the exercise is about to commence, we give them a call.
“The exercise is being carried out quarterly. We used to announce it through the radio, television or social media platforms for the general public to be aware.
“The foundation is exclusively for empowerment, development, education and charitable purposes. We also support the poor and vulnerable persons in the area of healthcare and economic skill.”
He added that the foundation, which was initiated in 2016, had been sponsoring the treatment and surgery for vulnerable people with hernia, hydrocele and eye problems.
Speaking to newsmen, the Permanent Secretary, Katsina State Ministry of Health, Dr Ahmad Hamza, commended the philanthropist for such gesture.
According to him, it is a great development which other wealthy individuals, companies and businesses people in the state should emulate.
“Some of the patients have been suffering from different eye problems, but due to the economic situation, they could not go to hospital.
“I have the belief that these beneficiaries will never forget this gesture, because it will go a long way in solving their sight problems,” the permanent secretary said.
He explained that the state government was ready to partner with such NGOs or any partner towards supporting the vulnerable people.
A cross section of the beneficiaries expressed joy and happiness and commended Mangal for extending the hands of fellowship.
