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Visual impairment and preventable blindness remain significant public health challenges, particularly among older persons, affecting the quality of life, productivity, and overall well being of many individuals. Health experts estimate that nearly 80 percent of blindness cases are preventable or treatable through timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and access to quality eye care services.
In a major step towards addressing this challenge, the County Government of Machakos, under the leadership of H.E. Governor Wavinya Ndeti, EGH, through the Department of Health, hosted delegates from the Sightsavers Bloomberg Clear Vision (Boresha Macho) Programme during a donor community courtesy call aimed at strengthening eye health services across the county.
The engagement provided an opportunity for county health officials and development partners to review key milestones achieved in eye health, discuss community-based service delivery approaches, and explore strategies for integrating primary eye care services into the broader healthcare system. The discussions centered on expanding access to quality eye care, particularly among underserved and vulnerable populations who often face barriers in accessing specialized health services.
A key highlight of the meeting was the critical role of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in the early identification and referral of eye conditions. Participants emphasized the need to strengthen the capacity of CHPs through training and support, enabling them to effectively identify eye health challenges at the community level and facilitate timely referrals for treatment. Early detection remains one of the most effective strategies for preventing avoidable blindness and reducing the burden of visual impairment.
The partnership between Machakos County and the Sightsavers Bloomberg Clear Vision (Boresha Macho) Programme reflects a shared commitment to building resilient health systems that prioritize prevention, early intervention, and equitable access to healthcare services. Through collaborative efforts, the programme continues to support initiatives that improve community awareness, enhance service delivery, and strengthen referral systems for eye care.
Speaking during the engagement, county health leaders reaffirmed Machakos County’s commitment to advancing universal health coverage by investing in innovative healthcare interventions and fostering strategic partnerships that improve health outcomes for residents. The collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to reducing cases of preventable blindness while ensuring more people can access timely and quality eye care services closer to their communities.
As Machakos continues to champion people centered healthcare, the county remains focused on creating a future where preventable blindness is significantly reduced, vulnerable populations are protected through accessible health services, and every resident has the opportunity to enjoy a healthier and more productive life. Through strong partnerships and community-driven solutions, the county is not only preserving sight but also transforming lives and strengthening the well being of its people.
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