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Kabgayi Eye Unit (KEU) has conducted a specialized surgical training session for ophthalmologists focused on the treatment of glaucoma, a major cause of blindness in Africa.
The practical workshop, held on Friday, was a continuation of theoretical training conducted the previous week, which introduced participants to the nature of glaucoma and its treatment options. Glaucoma is caused by increased intraocular pressure that, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible vision loss.
Dr. Theophile Tuyisabe, Director of KEU, explained that this session was tailored specifically for eye surgeons and aimed to enhance their practical skills in performing glaucoma-related procedures.
“Eye surgery is a specialty that requires advanced expertise,” Dr. Tuyisabe told ICK News. “Not all doctors can operate on eyes, which is why we selected a small group based on our equipment capacity to ensure effective training.”
Dr. Theophile Tuyisabe, Director of Kabgayi Eye Unit
Although participation was limited, Dr. Tuyisabe emphasized that additional sessions would be organized in the future to benefit a broader range of professionals. He reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to improving eye care services across the country.
As part of its continued dedication to medical excellence, KEU often collaborates with international specialists. This particular training featured Dr. Jia Ng, a glaucoma specialist from Sunderland Eye Infirmary in the United Kingdom.
“The idea is to share knowledge and expose local doctors to modern surgical techniques,” Dr. Tuyisabe said. “While we may lack some advanced technology, these international partnerships help bridge that gap.”
Dr. Michael Mikhail, the training coordinator at KEU, noted that such collaborations are not only beneficial for capacity-building but also create networks for ongoing knowledge exchange.
Dr. Michael Mikhail, the training coordinator at KEU
“Mainly, it’s to empower the local doctors and help them deliver better patient care,” Dr. Mikhail said. “It also fosters experience sharing and professional networking.”
Dr. Mikhail, A former trainee in the UK, said his personal connections have made it easier to bring UK-based specialists to Rwanda. “Many of my former colleagues are eager to come and contribute to our efforts here,” he said.
Dr. Jia Ng, who led the training, expressed admiration for the hospital’s equipment and the team’s commitment to excellence.
“I’m very impressed by the tools available here—visual field machines, OCT scanners, and surgical microscopes,” Dr. Ng said. “Even more impressive are the skills and passion of the medical team. There’s a clear culture of learning and improvement.”
Dr. Jia Ng, a glaucoma specialist from Sunderland Eye Infirmary in the United Kingdom
She also highlighted the urgency of glaucoma care in Africa, where the disease remains one of the leading causes of blindness. “Most glaucoma cases worldwide come from this region, and they’re often very advanced. It’s encouraging to see local doctors committed to early detection and management.”
Dr. Ng noted that she, too, learned from the Rwandan team, particularly their experience with advanced-stage glaucoma. “Learning is a two-way process,” she said. “While I shared strategies for early detection, I also gained insights from how the team manages complex cases.”
Among the trainees was Dr. Sonia Sebuseruka, an ophthalmologist at King Faisal Hospital, who described the training as “transformative.”
“This course taught us the most common glaucoma surgeries and new techniques,” Dr. Sebuseruka said. “It was not only interesting but will also enhance how I serve patients. I believe that my priority would be to try to implementearly screening programs to reduce preventable blindness.”
Dr. Sonia Sebuseruka is performing eye surgery with Dr. Michael Mikhail.
Looking ahead, Kabgayi Eye Hospital has scheduled additional training sessions. A course on strabismus (squint) treatment is set for August, followed by a workshop on ocular trauma in November.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), glaucoma causes about 15% of global blindness, making it the second leading cause after cataracts. Unlike cataracts, blindness from glaucoma is permanent. In sub-Saharan Africa, including Rwanda, up to 50% of patients are already blind in one eye at diagnosis. The Glaucoma Research Foundation reports that around 80 million people globally are living with glaucoma.
Dr. Tuyisabe presented a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Ng
