Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

19 August 2026

Mqebisi Mamba, a matric learner from Embalenhle, is urgently appealing for assistance as he battles a serious and painful eye condition that has affected both his health and education.

For several years, Mqebisi has suffered from eyes that are constantly red, itchy, painful and filled with tears. Despite seeking medical attention at public healthcare facilities, his condition has continued to deteriorate.

“I have been living with this pain for years, and all I want is to know what is wrong with my eyes and receive the right treatment,” said Mqebisi.

Mqebisi first sought medical assistance at a public clinic before being referred to Evander Hospital and later transferred to Bethal Hospital. He was prescribed medication, but says the relief only lasted for a few hours before the pain and discomfort returned.

“I repeatedly asked for more thorough medical attention because I could feel that something was seriously wrong. However, I was told that the problem was an infection and that I should continue using the medication I had been given. I was taking the medication, but the pain kept coming back,” he said.

Despite following the prescribed treatment, there has been no meaningful improvement. Instead, his condition has continued to worsen.

Mqebisi has now lost sight in one of his eyes, which remains itchy and painful. The situation has left him deeply concerned about his health and his future.

He urgently needs to be assessed by an eye specialist who can conduct a thorough examination, establish the cause of his condition, and recommend the appropriate treatment.

His mother has been doing everything possible to support him, but she struggles to afford transport costs for trips between Embalenhle and Bethal for his medical appointments.

His education is also at risk

The health crisis has had a devastating impact on Mqebisi’s education. He has been forced to stop attending school during what should be one of the most important years of his academic life – his matric year.

“Matric is an important year for me. I have dreams of completing my education, pursuing my goals, and building a better future for myself and my family. But right now, those dreams are being threatened by a health problem that I cannot afford to treat privately,” he said.

Mqebisi is appealing to individuals, organisations, businesses and anyone who may be able to assist him with medical care, transport costs or other support that could help him access the specialist treatment he urgently needs.

Anyone willing to assist Mqebisi can contact him or his mother on:

📞 082 406 8573
📞 072 693 6421

Every contribution, referral or form of assistance could help Mqebisi receive the medical attention he needs and give him a chance to return to school and continue pursuing his dreams.