Residents of Aroo Sub County in Turkana County have a reason to smile following successful cataract surgeries conducted on their kin.
Multiple patients with eye cataracts will now be able to resume their daily lives without the hiccups caused by eye diseases. Phillip Lokindila from Nakwamoru village described the surgery as a lifeline.
While awaiting surgery on his left eye, he faced discouragement from fellow villagers but remained resolute in his quest for relief.
For Elizabeth Adupu, a resident of Lopur village in Aroo Sub-county, persistent headaches from painful eyes had forced her to abandon farming, her family’s primary source of income. “I stopped going to the farm two weeks ago,” she recalled.
“Farming puts food on the table and pays school fees for my grandchildren.” Her hope was rekindled when she learnt about a free eye camp at Katilu Sub-County Hospital, where 60 cataract surgeries were performed in collaboration with the Fred Hollows Foundation to mark World Sight Day.
This annual event, celebrated every second Thursday of October, aims to raise awareness about vision impairment and promote eye care. It also serves as a platform to dispel misinformation surrounding eye surgeries.
Similarly, Ekaale Epem from Lochwaang’ikamatak village overcame initial hesitation due to negative remarks from friends and now plans to advocate for eye health in his community. “I know many of my friends and fellow villagers are struggling with eye issues,” he said. “I want to show them that surgery can change their lives.”
Erupe Lokale, a resident of Katilu, had missed four previous eye camps due to fear but attended this time thanks to her daughter’s encouragement.
During the event, County Executive for Health and Sanitation Longole Wangiros announced plans to establish more eye clinics in Aroo and neighbouring sub-counties, prioritising new healthcare services.
Chief Officer for Medical Services, Dr. Ezekiel Etelej, emphasized the importance of seeking early medical attention for eye issues while urging residents to practice proper eye hygiene.
Cathra Abdi, Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Health, encouraged parents to pay close attention to their children’s eye health and advised regular check-ups for those with conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes that could affect vision.
In line with this year’s World Sight Day theme, “Children, Love Your Eyes,” Samson Lokele, the County Eye Health Focal Person, reported that 15 children with congenital cataracts had already undergone successful surgeries.
He also revealed that 84 more children, mostly with squints (crossed eyes), are scheduled for surgery in partnership with the Fred Hollows Foundation and the Turkana Eye Project. Lokele announced that two more free eye camps would be held in Turkana East and Loima sub-counties in the coming months.
With her surgery a success, Elizabeth is eager to share her story within her community at church, mothers’ support groups, and farmers’ meetings. “I’m going back to my farm to tend to kunde, watermelons, and maize,” she said with renewed enthusiasm.
By Peter Gitonga
