By Esther Baraga | Director of Development
DeckerMed Africa Trust hosted a one-day Neglected Ophthalmic Diseases Camp in partnership
with El-Shammah School in Embakasi, Nairobi. We provided vital community-based eye care
services to underserved residents of Embakasi. This initiative focused on early detection of eye
diseases, awareness creation, provision of corrective lenses and referral for cataract surgery to
improve quality of life.
Camp Objectives
· Provide free eye screening and facilitate early detection of eye diseases.
· Raise community awareness of preventable and treatable eye conditions.
· Dispense corrective eyewear free to individuals with vision impairment.
· Refer patients requiring advanced interventions for specialized care.
· Refer cataract patients for free surgery to Fred Hollows Foundation.
Conclusion
The DeckerMed Africa Trust Eye Clinic at El-Shammah School underscored the vital role of
community outreach in overcoming barriers to eye care. By addressing neglected ophthalmic
conditions, the camp not only improved health outcomes but also advanced the mission of
promoting equitable access to vision services. A total of 313 patients were attended to — 103
under 18 and 210 adults — reflecting a strong community response. The significant turnout,
particularly among adults, highlights the continued need for accessible and inclusive eye care
outreach programs.
Success Story
Background
Alice, a resident of Kayole, had experienced difficulties with her eyesight for several years.
Simple daily activities such as reading signs, recognizing faces, and watching television had
become increasingly challenging. Limited access to affordable eye care services meant that her
condition went unaddressed for a long time.
Upon hearing about the Eye Clinic on Milele FM, Alice decided to attend the outreach camp in
search of a solution.
During her examination, the optometrists diagnosed his with myopia (short-sightedness) — a
refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry. She was subsequently fitted with a
pair of R2C glasses, significantly improving her vision.
Reflecting on her experience, Alice shared, “I can now see people’s faces clearly, even from a
distance. I feel like I’ve been given a new pair of eyes.”
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