WORLD SIGHT DAY 2026: LOVE YOUR EYES
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), in partnership with the Uasin Gishu County Government, the World Council of Optometry and the Optometrists Association of Kenya, marked World Sight Day 2026 under the theme “LOVE YOUR EYES” (Penda Macho Yako) with a focus on road safety and the importance of clear vision.
The celebrations began with an awareness walk from MTRH, officially flagged off by Dr. Andrew Wandera on behalf of the CEO, Dr. Philip Kirwa.
The walk brought together healthcare professionals, partners and community members in a collective call for better eye health and safer roads.
Dr. Wandera urged the public to make eye examinations part of routine healthcare, noting that early detection and timely treatment can help prevent avoidable vision loss.
He acknowledged the contribution of partners and collaborative programmes, including the Council of Ophthalmologists of East, Central and Southern Africa (COECSA), in strengthening eye health services and expanding access to quality care.
Dr. Wandera also highlighted the availability of free cataract screening and surgery at MTRH, as well as specialized services such as corneal transplantation.
The celebrations placed particular emphasis on people working in the transport sector, whose vision is critical to the safety of passengers and other road users.
MTRH, in conjunction with the Uasin Gishu County Department of Health conducted free eye screenings at designated bus parks in Eldoret City with Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators, undergoing additional vision assessments.
Dr. James Bett, Head of Ophthalmology at MTRH, highlighted the range of eye conditions affecting communities and noted the shortage of eye-care professionals amid growing demand for services.
Through partnerships and community-based outreach, MTRH continues to strengthen preventive healthcare, expand access to specialized services and promote patient-centred care, while contributing to healthier communities and safer roads.
