In yet another move towards addressing eye health challenges in East Africa, Megan Webber and Helene Dameris met with Njoki Wachira, a dynamic development specialist working with SEVA. The introduction was facilitated by Heidi Chase of SEVA, bringing together expertise and a shared commitment to improving eye care across the region. Njoki Wachira joined SEVA in late January and has since been making remarkable strides across multiple African countries. With a particular focus on East Africa, her efforts are set to concentrate on Uganda, Tanzania , Burundi and Malawi . Previously, SEVA had a presence in Benin but switched its focus to where the SEVA resources can have the most impact.
Heidi expressed her admiration for Njoki’s phenomenal role on the ground, emphasizing how her involvement has enhanced SEVA’s responsiveness and effectiveness in Africa. This hands-on approach is crucial in regions where resources are limited, and the need for proper screening, referral, education, and treatment is immense.
Megan Webber shared her experience attending the International Society of Ocular Oncology (ISOO) conference in Kenya last year. Witnessing the challenges faced by healthcare providers and their efforts to manage eye health with limited resources left a lasting impression on her. This shared understanding of the region underscores the likeminded approach between KTG and SEVA, as they each strive to overcome these challenges and expand their impact in East Africa and explore ways they can collaborate.
Njoki Wachira brings a wealth of experience to her role. Her career began in population services, focusing on family planning, HIV prevention, and maternal health. She later joined the Fred Hollows Foundation, where she worked on strengthening health systems in Kenya’s ophthalmic services. Collaborating with Dr. Gichangi, the head of ophthalmic services in Kenya’s Ministry of Health, she helped map and address gaps in eye health resources and equipment.
Njoki’s dedication to eye health advocacy is deeply personal. During her time with the Fred Hollows Foundation, she became involved with Mama Respond which a support group for mothers of children with special needs. Her journey into eye health advocacy began when she helped a child named Lucky receive bilateral cataract surgery, inspiring her to continue championing the cause.
Njoki is now focused on forging partnerships in Uganda, where she aims to address the gap of access to eye health information and education and awareness among communities. Her advocacy extends to raising visual awareness, particularly in areas with limited resources. In Burundi, she collaborates closely with Dr. Levi Kandeke at CTSOE, a clinic dedicated to children’s eye health.
The partnership between KnowTheGlow, SEVA, and its newest addition, Njoki Wachira, represents a powerful alliance dedicated to improving eye health for the most vulnerable populations in East Africa. As Njoki continues her work with SEVA,she hopes to bring a renewed focus on childhood eye health. We look forward to exploring ways to work with Njoki and the team at SEVA and to continue to cheer them on for the amazing work they are already achieving in the region. Thanks to individuals like Heidi and Njoki, the future looks promising for eye health advocacy and intervention in East Africa. Their combined efforts promise to bring much-needed awareness, resources, and care to those in need, ensuring that vision health becomes a priority in the region.
