Thousands of school going children in Laikipia County are set to benefit from improved access to quality eye care following the launch of the Laikipia School Eye Health Project at Bungoma Primary School.
The initiative, implemented by Good Vision Kenya in partnership with the County Government of Laikipia aims to improve children’s eye health through early detection, treatment, referral services and eye health education.
The project targets learners across Laikipia East and Laikipia Central recognizing that good vision is fundamental to a child’s education, confidence and future success.
During the implementation period, the project reached 120 schools and screened 8,717 learners for vision and eye health conditions.
The screenings identified 346 learners requiring prescription eyewear, with 291 pairs of eyeglasses successfully distributed, including 139 pairs donated to learners in need.
By providing corrective eyewear, the project has helped children overcome vision challenges that often hinder classroom participation and academic performance.
The screening also revealed that many learners were affected by common but treatable eye conditions, including allergic conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome and bacterial conjunctivitis.
Children requiring specialized treatment beyond school-based services were referred through the county’s healthcare system for further assessment and management ensuring they received the care they needed.
Beyond screenings and treatment, the project distributed 4,320 Information, Communication and Education (ICE) materials to learners, teachers and parents, promoting eye health awareness, early detection of vision problems and timely health-seeking behaviour.
The launch event was attended by Good Vision Kenya Country Director Benson Ngure, Laikipia County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Albert Taiti, County Project Lead Beatrice, Laikipia County Eye Coordinator Dr. Muthoni and Good Vision Regional Coordinator Alice Mwangi, underscoring the strong partnership between Good Vision Kenya and the County Government of Laikipia.
Speaking during the event, Laikipia County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation Albert Taiti commended Good Vision Kenya for its impactful work in Laikipia County noting the positive difference the organization continues to make in improving children’s eye health.
Further, he welcomed the organization rallying them to continue partnering with the county to expand access to quality eye care services for learners and their communities.
Alice Mwangi, the organization’s Regional Coordinator highlighted the transformative impact of restoring children’s sight.
“For every child who is seen and given glasses, we save a future. We encourage parents to support their children by ensuring they wear their glasses whenever they are prescribed,” she noted.
Dr. Elizabeth Muthoni, the Laikipia County Eye Coordinator, emphasized the importance of a strong referral system in ensuring that learners with more complex eye conditions receive specialized care beyond the school screenings.
However, she affirmed that the collaboration between Good Vision Kenya and the County Government has strengthened continuity of care ensuring children requiring further treatment are not left behind.
“The Laikipia School Eye Health Project demonstrates that investing in children’s vision is an investment in education, health and the future of the county,” she said.
She added that by combining school-based screenings, treatment, referrals and community awareness, the initiative is helping children see clearly, learn confidently and unlock their full potential.
The eye project stands as a model for sustainable school eye health programmes that are changing lives one child, one classroom and one community at a time.
