Murang'a: Residents in rural areas have been urged to go for regular medical checkups to allow for early detection and intervention of illnesses such as cataract, hypertension, and diabetes, among others. Ushiriki Wema Okoa Malaika programme brand ambassador Njoki Mambo, speaking on behalf of the organization's Chairperson, Tessie Musalia, emphasized the significance of regular medical checkups and screenings as crucial for ensuring early diagnosis of age-related illnesses.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mambo made these remarks during a free eye medical camp at Karung'e primary school in Murang'a, organized by Ahadi Kenya Trust. The event provided comprehensive eye screening services to over 500 local residents, with some receiving glasses and 22 individuals being referred for surgery. Mambo highlighted the importance of early detection and intervention in managing and improving the lives of elderly people and other vulnerable groups.
'I encourage our elders, their families, and their caregivers to prioritize routine health screening and well checkups as part of our approach to early detection and prevention of diseases,' Mambo stated. She added that one of the areas of focus at Ushiriki Wema is the elderly, under the program dubbed Staraa ya wazee, where they engage elderly people in activities centered on their wellbeing, including medical camps.
Ahadi Kenya Trust CEO Dr. Stanley Kamau, speaking at the same event, stressed that regular checkups can detect any irregularities, enabling timely intervention and management, thus making a substantial difference in the quality of life for the elderly. Kamau noted that many ailing and elderly people lack the resources to access health facilities, as some are located in far-off areas.
Dr. Daniel Mburu from Lions Sight First Eye Hospital mentioned the prevalence of eye conditions in the country and noted that such medical camps bring essential services closer to the people. He explained that cataracts, a condition where the lens inside the eye develops cloudy patches, can cause blindness, but this form of blindness is preventable through surgery.
NCBA Murang'a Branch manager Bernard Ngatia highlighted the bank's partnership with Ahadi Trust Kenya, reflecting their shared commitment to the wellbeing of senior citizens within their communities. Ngatia stated that the bank has pledged Sh. 250,000 to support the initiative, and through collaborations, they have been able to offer more to communities in different projects.
One of the beneficiaries, 70-year-old Mary Nyambura from Gitugi ward, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that it was a relief to many elderly people who are ailing. 'Apart from my eyes being screened and receiving glasses to enable me to see properly, I also had my blood sugar and blood pressure checked,' she said.