Government Reaffirms Commitment to Eye Health on World Sight Day. As Kenya joined the rest of the world in marking World Sight Day, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed that about 85 per cent of cases of vision loss in the country are either treatable or preventable
In a statement to commemorate the day, CS Duale emphasized that early dedication and timely care could significantly reduce the burden of vision loss across the country.
The Ministry of Health remains committed to working closely with the Council of Governors, county governments, development partners and communities to expand access to services, strengthen health systems and embed eye care firmly within Universal Health Coverage
CS Duale He further noted that globally, 1.1 billion people live with vision impairment, with nearly 90 per cent of those cases being treatable or preventable
Clear Vision, Equal Opportunity
Duale reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring that every Kenyan — adult or child, rural or urban — enjoys the right to clear sight and the opportunities it unlocks.
This year’s theme for World Sight Day, “Taking Eye Care to the Heart of Decision Making,” aims to place eye health at the core of global and national health agendas, with a strong focus on equity and access.
Strengthening Eye Health Systems
Speaking at the same event, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, assured Kenyans that the government continues to prioritize access to affordable, quality eye care services.
We shall continue to improve the scope of eye health coverage under the Social Health Authority. We are reducing cost-related barriers to make essential eye care services more accessible to Kenyans
DR Ouma He emphasized that stronger partnerships and better coordination are key drivers of progress in the sector
Community Health Integration
Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Public Health, also highlighted the government’s efforts to integrate primary eye care into the community health strategy.
According to him, Community Health Promoters are now equipped to identify and refer individuals with eye conditions for early and appropriate treatment
About World Sight Day
World Sight Day is an annual event held on the second Thursday of October, aimed at raising awareness about blindness, vision impairment, and the importance of eye health.
The day is coordinated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and is supported by governments and organisations globally.
The 2025 theme, “Taking Eye Care to the Heart of Decision Making,” seeks to build on the momentum of past years, encouraging decision-makers to prioritize access to eye care for everyone, everywhere.
World Sight Day is not only a reminder of the more than 1 billion suffering from vision impairment or blindness worldwide, but also a call to action — urging governments, healthcare systems, and individuals to promote routine eye check-ups, affordable treatments, and preventive care, especially in underserved communities.
