Children in Taita Taveta County to undergo free eye screening

All children aged between 3 and 14 years in Taita Taveta County will undergo vision screening as part of a county-wide initiative aimed at improving eye health.

The exercise, set to be conducted in 45 selected Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres, is a joint effort by the Taita Taveta County Government, Light House for Christ Eye Centre, and CBM Global.

During a recent sensitisation meeting held on Monday, ECDE supervisors and coordinators were trained on how to identify common eye conditions in children.

A specialist from Light House for Christ Eye Centre Morris Kawinzi led the session, focusing on the importance of early detection and treatment of eye diseases in children.

"Children diagnosed with eye conditions during the screening will receive free treatment and care," Kawinzi assured.

The initiative not only aims to detect existing eye problems but also to educate ECDE supervisors on proper eye care and how to use programme tools effectively.

ECDE supervisors during the sensitisation meeting held in Taita Taveta ahead of schools' vision eye screening in ECDE Centres. (Photo: Taita Taveta Press)

Early intervention

Kawinzi emphasised that early intervention is key to preventing more severe issues later in life.

An Ophthalmic Clinical Officer and Low Vision Therapist from Taveta Sub-County Hospital, Patience Karembo highlighted the significance of screening across different age groups.

"Protecting children's vision as they grow is crucial," she said. Karembo further explained basic eye examination techniques and how to recognise symptoms that could indicate potential eye diseases. "Failure to address these issues can negatively impact a child's academic performance, social participation, and future economic productivity," she warned.

The Director of ECDE in Taita Taveta, Leonard Mwachia praised the initiative, stating, "Promoting and improving eye health among children aligns with the sustainable development goals of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education."

He encouraged teachers to collaborate closely with county eye care workers for prompt action when eye issues are identified.

Mwachia also announced that he would lead the selection of the ECDE centres for the screening, develop the screening schedule, and oversee the training of selected teachers.