THE government has affirmed that it will continue partnering with Lions International District 411C to ensure the institution backs treatment for people with visual impairments and those with heart problems.

Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office - Labour, Youth, Employment and People with Disabilities - Ridhiwani Kikwete issued the affirmation upon the conclusion of the 2025 Run for Sight Marathon held in Dar es Salaam on Sunday.

Lions Clubs International, District 411C Tanzania, hosted the race – a powerful initiative devoted to eliminating preventable and reversible blindness in the country - for the third successive year.

"The government congratulates the Lions Club for its significant contribution to the community in helping people with visual impairments as well as those with heart problems," Kikwete noted. 

The minister said the money raised in the race would help to carry out research and provide treatment for the visually impaired and those with heart disease. 

He thanked the club for continuing to trust him and claimed that the race helps to improve the health of the participants, most of whom are the future of the nation.

Lions International District 411c's Governor, Habil Khanbhai, said the race has taken place for the third successive year - targeting to get rid of visual impairment, which can be treated.

Khanbhai pointed out that in 2023, his club collected 41m/-, which helped to carry out eye surveillance for 6,027 people, as well as surgery for 453 people. 

"Last year, we collected 58m/- and helped 7,960 people with disabilities and carried out surgery for 502 people. We believe the money raised today (on Sunday) will help us achieve our goals," Khanbhai stated. 

The Lions International District 411c boss added that the response in Sunday's race was huge, given many people turned up to back the initiative.

Khanbhai further said the unity shown by the runners bolsters hope that the game is gaining prominence.

Since 1990, through the SightFirst program, Lions -working hand in hand with healthcare providers and partners - have impacted over 544 million lives globally, restoring sight and transforming futures.

In 2023, the noble initiative raised 41m/-, enabling vision screening for 6,027 individuals and facilitating 453 cataract surgeries.

Building on such a success, in 2024, Lions International District 411c raised 58m/-, reaching 7,960 individuals and performing 502 cataract surgeries.

Khanbhai noted that the institution is still committed to expanding this impact, reaching more communities in need.

Kikwete's presence and support, Khanbhai stressed, are key to helping the institution bring light and hope to those living with visual impairment.

The Lions International District 411c boss said the institution is honoured to welcome the race's chief guest, Kikwete, whose continued leadership in health and social welfare inspires all involved - volunteers, partners, and beneficiaries.

The institution also extended its sincere appreciation to generous sponsors- Beta Charitable Trust, Serengeti Balloon Safaris, Aviv Tanzania, Diamond Trust Bank (Tanzania Ltd), Lalji Foundation, 78inc and other sponsors whose unwavering support has made this mission possible.