Lions International, Mwenda Njagi Foundation Hold Eye Camps and Literacy Drive in Thika Schools

Hundreds of learners in Thika benefited from free eye screening services and literacy activities during a community outreach programme jointly organised by Lions International District 411A and the Mwenda Njagi Foundation.

The exercise was conducted at Mugumoini Primary School, Thika Primary School and Gatumaini Primary School, with organisers saying the initiative was aimed at improving learners' eye health while promoting a strong reading culture among school-going children.

Speaking after the event, Lions International District 411A Governor Ambassador Lion Simon Njoroge said the organisation remains committed to serving communities through various humanitarian programmes.

“We are known for our work in vision, the environment, diabetes awareness and many other areas of service. Lions International started in 1917 and today we continue to impact communities across Kenya, Ethiopia and South Sudan under District 411A,” said Governor Njoroge.

He explained that the day's activities began with eye camps at Mugumoini Primary School and Thika Primary School before proceeding to Gatumaini Primary School, where learners also participated in reading sessions.

“Today was a big day for us. We started early in the morning with eye camps in schools and later spent time reading books with our lovely students. I want to thank everyone who has been with us since morning and supported these activities,” he said.

Governor Njoroge noted that vision remains one of Lions International's key global causes, adding that early detection of eye problems among children plays a critical role in improving academic performance and overall well-being.

Speaking during the event, Wakili Mwenda Njagi who is the Patron of Mwenda Njagi Foundation thanked Lions International, school administrations and members of the community for supporting the initiative.

He added that the foundation focuses on four key areas aimed at uplifting vulnerable members of society, the first being the provision of sanitary towels to school-going girls to help them remain in school and learn comfortably and with dignity.

Secondly, the foundation promotes literacy through the donation of books and initiatives that encourage a reading culture among learners.

“One of our priorities is empowering learners through books and nurturing a strong reading culture. Reading remains one of the most important tools in improving academic performance and expanding opportunities for young people,” said Wakili Njagi.

The foundation also supports vulnerable individuals who require legal assistance, including inmates and people who cannot afford legal representation.

In addition, it runs community-based programmes targeting low-income earners, including bodaboda operators and other disadvantaged groups who may require support in accessing justice and other social services.

During the event, Mwenda Njagi also spoke about his vision for improving education standards in Thika. Njagi, who has declared his intention to contest the Thika Town Parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election under the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), said schools in the constituency deserve better facilities and investment.

“Today has been an eye-opener. I want to assure the residents of Thika that, if given the opportunity to serve, schools in this constituency will become a benchmark of excellence in this Republic,” he said.

He pledged to support the improvement of school infrastructure and learning environments, arguing that learners in Thika should have access to facilities that match or surpass those found in some of the country's top-performing schools.

“We should not settle for average standards. Our schools must become centres of excellence. If we can support such initiatives while outside government, imagine what can be achieved when we have the opportunity to serve from public office,” Njagi said.

The outreach programme concluded with learners, teachers and organisers expressing optimism that continued collaboration between Lions International, the Mwenda Njagi Foundation and other stakeholders will help improve education, health and social welfare outcomes for children in Thika and beyond.

According to education experts, undiagnosed vision problems can significantly affect a child's ability to read, write and participate effectively in class, making school-based eye screening programmes an important intervention.