Eye Expert Urges Early Detection as the World Marks World Sight Day

 Reporting by Jameson Mutua 

Dr. Victor Opiyo and content creator Denis Somba during an interview in Mombasa.

When Denis Somba, a content creator and agronomist from Mshomoroni, Mombasa, began noticing flashing lights and severe eye strain last year, he thought it was a minor issue that could be fixed with new spectacles. Within months, his vision deteriorated drastically, leaving him partially blind in one eye — a terrifying ordeal that would change his life.

After visiting several optical outlets without a clear diagnosis, Denis was finally referred to an ophthalmologist who confirmed that he had suffered a retinal detachment in his left eye — a serious condition that can cause permanent blindness if not treated promptly.

“The doctor told me if I didn’t undergo surgery immediately, I would lose my sight permanently,” Denis recalls. “It was terrifying, but I was lucky to have supportive family and doctors who acted fast.”

He underwent corrective surgery earlier this year, and after weeks of recovery, his sight was fully restored. Today, Denis attends regular eye clinics and has adopted new habits to protect his eyes — including reducing screen time and wearing protective lenses.

“World Sight Day reminds us that we often take our eyes for granted,” he says. “If you notice something unusual with your vision, don’t ignore it. The earlier, the better.”

Denis Somba goes about his daily activities after recovering his sight.

A Growing Burden of Avoidable Blindness

According to the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), over 2 billion people globally live with vision impairment, more than half of which could have been prevented or treated. In Kenya, the situation is compounded by limited access to specialized care and a shortage of eye health professionals.

Dr. Opiyo in his office in Mombasa. Photo: Courtesy 

Dr. Victor Opiyo, President of the Optometry Association of Kenya and Secretary General of the African Council of Optometry, says Denis’ case underscores the importance of early detection.

“Retinal detachment is an ocular emergency,” he explains. “Early diagnosis and immediate referral to a specialist make all the difference. In Denis’ case, the success came from detecting the problem early and treating it urgently.”

While retinal detachment is more common among older adults, Dr. Opiyo notes that myopia (short-sightedness), especially when unmanaged, can increase the risk for younger people.

“When the eyeball keeps growing, it exerts pressure on the retina, causing it to thin and sometimes pull away,” he explains. “That’s what happened with Denis.”

Shortage of Eye Specialists

Kenya faces a severe shortage of eye care professionals — with fewer than 200 ophthalmologists and around 640 optometrists serving a population of over 56 million people. Most specialists are concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural and informal settlements underserved.

“Nearly a quarter of Kenyans need eye care,” Dr. Opiyo says. “Yet, about half of these cases involve avoidable blindness. We urgently need to train more optometrists and establish eye care units at county hospitals to increase access.”

Warning Signs and Prevention

Dr. Opiyo advises the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience flashing lights, floaters, shadows, or sudden blurry vision — all early signs of retinal or neurological issues.

He also recommends annual eye examinations for healthy adults and biannual check-ups for those with conditions like diabetes or hypertension, which can affect eyesight.

“Listen to your body,” he urges. “If you wake up and something doesn’t feel right with your vision, don’t wait. Visit a professional immediately.”

The High Cost of Treatment

Eye surgeries in Kenya remain costly, with retinal detachment surgery in public hospitals averaging around KES 250,000 per eye, and higher in private facilities. The expense often deters patients from seeking timely care, leading to irreversible vision loss.

To reduce this burden, the Optometry Association of Kenya is engaging policymakers to subsidize eye care services and integrate eye health into universal healthcare plans.

As the world marks World Sight Day 2025 under the theme “Love Your Eyes”, experts emphasize that most causes of blindness are preventable through routine screening, education, and early intervention.

For Denis, the experience has been life-changing.

“Being able to see again feels like a second chance,” he says with a smile. “Now, I cherish every sunrise, every color, every moment — because I know what it means to lose it.”

Sidebar: Warning Signs of Retinal Detachment

Flashes of light or “lightning” in your vision

Sudden appearance of floaters (dark specks or strings)

A shadow or curtain over part of your vision

Sudden blurry or reduced vision

Recommended: Annual eye check-ups for adults; every six months for people with diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions.