Siloam Eye Centre Opens in Eldoret as Leaders Step Up Fight Against Vision Problems

 

By Wasike Elvis 

Residents of Eldoret are set to benefit from improved and specialized eye care services following the official launch of the Siloam Eye Centre, a new facility aimed at tackling the growing burden of preventable and treatable vision problems in the region.

The centre was officially opened by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim, who underscored the urgent need to prioritize eye health as a key component of overall well-being and socio-economic development.

“Vision is a vital sense that supports learning, productivity, and overall quality of life, yet many members of our community continue to experience preventable or treatable vision problems, often undiagnosed,” the governor said during the launch.

He noted that children across the county continue to face learning challenges due to undetected vision impairments, while increased screen exposure among young people has led to rising cases of eye strain. At the same time, many elderly residents are living with conditions that could be effectively managed or treated if diagnosed early.

 

Governor Bii said the county government has made deliberate investments in strengthening eye health services, including establishing and equipping eye care units in public health facilities. He added that partnerships with private sector players are crucial in expanding access to quality and affordable care.

“The opening of Siloam Eye Centre in the heart of our city reflects our commitment to ensuring that residents have access to timely, affordable, and high-quality eye care services,” he said.

The facility’s Founder and Medical Director, Amos Kiptoo Koech, described the launch as a milestone in transforming healthcare delivery in the region.

“A new vision for eye care begins today,” said Dr. Koech. “We are proud to mark the official launch of Siloam Eye Centre Eldoret, a significant step forward in advancing accessible, quality eye care for our community.”

The launch event brought together a range of stakeholders, including representatives from WIDU Africa, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, all united in a shared commitment to improving eye health outcomes.

 

Dr. Koech emphasized the importance of routine eye examinations, noting that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to prevent avoidable blindness and vision impairment. He said the centre will offer comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, and surgical interventions.

In a demonstration of its commitment to community outreach, the facility recently conducted a successful eye camp, during which 10 cataract surgeries were performed. The procedures, led by Dr. Koech and his team, restored sight to patients who had been living with visual impairment.

“These life-changing procedures were made possible through our commitment to giving back to the community—restoring not just sight, but hope,” he said. “At Siloam, this is a milestone we hold with great humility and gratitude. We do not take it for granted.”

 

Health experts note that cataracts remain one of the leading causes of blindness in Kenya, particularly among older populations, but can be effectively treated through timely surgical intervention.

The establishment of Siloam Eye Centre is expected to ease the burden on existing health facilities in Uasin Gishu County while improving access to specialized services for residents of Eldoret and neighboring regions.

As the facility begins operations, stakeholders expressed optimism that the partnership between government and private healthcare providers will play a pivotal role in strengthening the healthcare system, restoring sight, and improving the quality of life for thousands of Kenyans.