Traders get reading glasses at Sh150

By Peter Ochieng

Some traders with eye problems at the Kibuye market in Kisumu, on Wednesday recieved reading glasses after parting with only Sh150.

The traders aged 40 and above saw lady luck smile on them during a free medical camp organised by Kisumu businessman Edward Onyango alias Bob CEO, in collaboration with Maisha Meds and Tazama glasses.

Judie Jowi, Maisha Meds' sales executive said the traders only needed to show up, have their eyes checked and those having trouble given reading glasses at an affordable rate of Sh150.

She said they decided to take the camp to the market, so as to reach out to traders who rarely have time for health checks.

"Most of those above the age of 40 normally have trouble reading. Traders are most of the time busy, we have brought services closer to them," she said.

Jowi said their target for the day was about 500 people. They had crossed the 200 mark by midday.

She added that their plan is to conduct medical camps in various parts of Kisumu on a weekly basis, so as to reach out to more people, especially those who can't afford medical tests.

One of the people who got the glasses was 50 year-old Rosemary Apiyo. "I can now read my Bible," she said beaming with a smile.

Other services included free malaria tests, as those found sick got medication free of charge.

Jackline Atieno, an onion trader at the market was subjected to a malaria test.

Atieno said the process was seamless as compared to 'a lot of time taken in most public hospitals.'

"I have never seen something like this on this market. This medical camps should be held frequently," she noted.

The initiative got the backing of Kennedy Nyaori, who works at Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron's office.

"It is a good course, bringing health services closer to the people is the way to go."