Mpigi District is predominantly rural, with many communities depending on agriculture, fishing and small businesses. Limited incomes, long distances to specialized health facilities and inadequate access to eye care made Mpigi an important area for The Seeing Eyes. The programme worked through health facilities such as Mpigi Health Centre IV, Buwama Health Centre IV, Kammengo Health Centre IV, Muduuma Health Centre III and Nkozi Health Centre III, as well as community gathering points, to bring eye care closer to underserved populations.

Schools were a major focus of the outreach, with children screened for refractive errors such as myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism. Children who needed vision correction were provided with spectacles to improve their ability to see the classroom board, read and participate in lessons. Churches and mosques were also used to reach adults and older people, particularly those affected by presbyopia. Reading spectacles enabled beneficiaries to read religious materials and perform everyday near-vision activities more comfortably.

The programme also provided treatment for common eye conditions such as allergies and infections. Patients with cataracts and other serious eye conditions were identified and referred for specialized care, including cataract surgery through appropriate referral pathways and collaboration with Mulago National Referral Hospital where necessary. Community members also received education on eye hygiene, prevention of infections, early treatment and the dangers of using traditional or unverified medicines in the eyes.

Overall, the Mpigi outreach improved access to eye care for children, adults and older people across rural communities. By combining schools, health facilities, churches, mosques and community mobilization, The Seeing Eyes identified eye problems early, provided spectacles and treatment, and connected patients requiring specialized care to appropriate services. The programme strengthened the organization’s commitment to preventing avoidable blindness and ensuring that underserved communities can see, learn, work and participate fully in daily life.