Healthcare

Eye Testing

Optometrists and their full range of testing equipment were brought in from East London to the Mkambati region, where access to even the most basic healthcare services is limited. Two free eye-testing clinics were held in the MLT area, providing vital care to local residents who often travel long distances — or simply go without — for essential health support.

For many community members, eye care is not just a medical service but a gateway to improved quality of life. Clear vision affects everything: the ability to work, to study, to move safely, and to participate fully in family and community life. By offering early detection of issues, proper screening, and immediate access to corrective eyewear, we are helping to prevent small, treatable problems from becoming long-term disabilities.

Around 300 people received free prescription and reading glasses — enabling many to see and read clearly again for the first time in years. This initiative is a reminder of how impactful basic healthcare can be, and how essential it is to continue bringing these services closer to those who need them most.

Trial Surgery Program

Mkambati Matters has relationships with doctors and surgeons who are willing to donate their time in exchange for bed nights at GweGwe Lodge. Two successful operations were conducted on MLT community members on a trial basis to test the concept. Both operations were fully funded by the Mkambati NPO and the surgeons. Both operations were conducted in private hospitals in Durban with total success. The grand plan is, subject to funding and permissions, to upgrade and equip an operating room at Holy Cross Hospital so that these operations can take place close to the MLT community. For this to happen, cooperation agreements need to be signed between the MEC for Health and our volunteer doctors – and there needs to be ample funding in the NPO from traversing tourists to the MNR and Mkambati Matters’ northern concession.

One of the operations was the removal of a ganglion from the wrist of one of the Green Griffon trainees.

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