The County Government of Uasin Gishu has joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Sight Day 2026, with residents receiving free eye screening, cataract assessment and related eye care services.

Representing Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim, Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Services Dr. Billy Lubanga, said the county remains committed to protecting lives by ensuring residents have access to quality eye care services.

“We are protecting lives by ensuring our residents have access to quality eye care services. Good vision is an important component of safety, especially for drivers and other road users.”

“We have put in place eye screening and cataract services, and I encourage drivers, conductors, boda boda and tuk-tuk operators, as well as children and the wider community, to come forward and have their eyes checked,” said Dr. Lubanga.

Dr. Lubanga encouraged residents to make use of the free services, emphasizing that early screening can help detect eye conditions before they lead to serious complications.

He also thanked partners for supporting the event and urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity to maintain healthy eyes.

Representing MTRH Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wandera, the Senior Director of Clinical Services highlighted the important role played by eye health professionals in helping people maintain their sight.

Additionally, he noted that MTRH has a well-established eye unit providing tertiary services, while plans are underway to establish an optical shop and continue training eye surgeons to deliver high-quality specialized care.

Head of Ophthalmology at MTRH Dr. James Bett, said World Sight Day provides an important opportunity to raise awareness about preventable and treatable eye conditions.

Dr. Bett noted that cataracts remain a major cause of blindness and emphasized the importance of early eye examinations, particularly among children and older persons.

He encouraged residents to embrace the theme “Love Your Eyes” by seeking eye care before problems become severe.

On his part, Director of Medical Services Dr. Evans Kiprotich said the county is committed to ensuring residents can access eye care services seamlessly, from screening and early diagnosis to specialized treatment and referral. He urged residents to take advantage of available services and make eye health a regular part of their healthcare, noting that timely intervention can help prevent avoidable loss of sight.