Healthcare workers, partners and members of the public took to the streets of Eldoret on Thursday as Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) marked World Sight Day 2026 under the global theme: Love Your Eyes – Penda Macho Yako, with a strong message that good vision is essential for safer roads
The celebrations, held in partnership with the Uasin Gishu County Government, the World Council of Optometry and the Optometrists Association of Kenya, began with an awareness walk that set off from the MTRH grounds.
The walk was officially flagged off by Dr Andrew Wandera on behalf of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Philip Kirwa, on Thursday.
“Eye examinations must become part of routine healthcare, just like checking blood pressure or blood sugar,” Dr Wandera told participants before the walk.
“Early detection and timely treatment can prevent most cases of avoidable vision loss. We urge every Kenyan to love their eyes by having them checked regularly,” urged Dr Wandera.
He thanked partners for their continued support, singling out collaborative programmes with the Council of Ophthalmologists of East, Central and Southern Africa (COECSA) that have helped expand access to quality eye care.
“At MTRH we offer free cataract screening and surgery, and we also provide specialised services including corneal transplantation. These services are available, and we want the public to take advantage of them,” he added. A key focus of this year’s observance was the transport sector.
MTRH, working with the Uasin Gishu County Department of Health, conducted free eye screenings at major bus parks across Eldoret City, with public service vehicle (PSV) operators receiving additional vision assessments.
Dr James Bett, Head of Ophthalmology at MTRH, stressed the link between clear vision and road safety.
“Many of the people who keep our transport system moving – drivers, conductors and touts – depend on good eyesight every single day. Yet eye conditions remain common in our communities, while the number of eye-care professionals is still far below the demand,” Dr Bett said.
“Through partnerships and community outreach, we are determined to reach more people, prevent needless blindness and contribute to safer roads for everyone,” he added.
Hospital officials said the World Sight Day activities form part of MTRH’s broader commitment to preventive healthcare, expanded specialised services and patient-centred care, all aimed at building healthier communities and reducing road accidents linked to poor vision.
By Maurice Aluda
