Lions Eye Hospital in Eastleigh has marked its first anniversary of providing free eye care services. The hospital, located in the Kenyan town of Eastleigh, has treated over 1,200 patients since its launch. Yusuf Hassan, a local resident, recounted how his father’s near-blindness was reversed through the hospital’s free services.
Hassan said his father had struggled with severe eye conditions for years but could not afford treatment. After visiting Lions Eye Hospital, his father received free care and regained most of his vision. “My father’s experience shaped my belief that eye care should not be a privilege,” Hassan said.
The hospital, operated by a local NGO, offers free consultations, cataract surgeries, and glaucoma treatments. It has also partnered with international organizations to secure medical supplies and equipment. The initiative has been praised for addressing a critical gap in healthcare access for low-income residents.
Eastleigh, a rapidly growing informal settlement in Nairobi, has long faced challenges in accessing quality healthcare. The hospital’s free services have been a lifeline for many. However, officials say more funding and resources are needed to expand the program. The anniversary marks a milestone but also highlights ongoing needs in the community.
