Overview

Sightsavers is an international development and health charity that works to prevent avoidable blindness, fight neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), and promote disability rights and inclusion. Kenya is one of its long-standing country programmes, active since the early 1950s.

History in Kenya

Sightsavers began work in Kenya in 1952, when blindness rates were particularly high in rural areas. Over the decades, its focus expanded from cataract surgeries and blindness prevention to broader eye health, community rehabilitation, and advocacy for people with disabilities. In 2023, the organisation celebrated 70 years of operation in Kenya.

Key Focus Areas
1. Eye Health

Provides free eye screenings for conditions like cataracts, refractive errors, and glaucoma.

Partners with local professionals and government to train ophthalmic staff and expand services.

Supports research to better understand causes and prevalence of visual impairment.

2. Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)

Tackles trachoma, which remains endemic in several counties.

Runs mass drug administration campaigns and provides surgical treatment for advanced cases.

Promotes hygiene and sanitation in schools and communities to prevent disease spread.

Uses technology such as digital screening tools and spatial mapping to improve reach and data tracking.

3. Disability Inclusion

Promotes equal opportunities in education, employment, and civic life for people with disabilities.

Works with schools and parents to ensure inclusive education.

Runs initiatives like the IT Bridge Academy, which provides IT skills and internships for young people with disabilities.

Engages in wider programmes to strengthen labour rights, particularly for women with disabilities, and partners with organisations to advance inclusive policies.

Structure and Presence

Sightsavers Kenya is guided by an independent board of trustees.

The main office is in Nairobi, serving as a hub for coordination with partners, government, and local organisations.

Achievements

Restored sight to thousands of people through surgeries and treatments.

Significantly reduced prevalence of certain eye diseases.

Introduced innovative tools to improve eye health services and data systems.

Advanced disability inclusion in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Challenges

Difficulties in reaching remote communities with health services.

Limited resources and health personnel for sustained eye care.

Need for stronger integration of eye health into national health systems.

Social stigma and discrimination faced by people with disabilities.