By Anderson Ojwang
The 50th anniversary of former freedom fighter and chairman of Kenya Africa Union (KAU), the late Walter Fanuel Odede, was marked by giving back sight to residents of Rarieda sub-county who suffer various eye problems.
During the event to mark the day, the residents had an opportunity to access free eye medical services provided by the Innovation Eye Centre based in both Kisumu and Kisii counties.
Prof Kiage, the founder and medical director of the centre said during the exercise they were able to give free medical service to 250 outpatients from the area.
“We identified 20 cases for theatre in Kisumu on 3rd January 2025. We had 18 cases suffering from cataracts and another two from glaucoma,” he said.
He said during the free eye clinic they were able to dispense 210 eye drops and also gave out 59 glasses to various patients.
“We saw patients of various ages and it is important that we should expose the public to continuous eye checks and clinics to help control preventable eye diseases,” he said.
The family’s chairman and spokesperson Dr Jorry Odede said his father was known for supporting the community in various ways and that is why they wanted to honour him in a special way by supporting the residents.
Dr Odede, a respected ophthalmologist in the country said the late Walter Odede’s contribution to Kenya’s independence cannot be downplayed and that he sacrificed for the nation.
‘‘Walter dedicated his life to the country. He gave his all to the community and the country. That is why we found it befitting to celebrate his jubilee,” he said.
Kisumu Governor, Prof Anyang Nyong’o eulogized the late Odede as a person who was dedicated to transforming mankind and a respectable freedom fighter.
“I saw Odede and my father Cannon Nyong’o who was in charge of Rambira converse about what they could do to better the lives of the people. They were so passionate about education and economic welfare of the people. That is why I feel so honoured to be part of this journey,” he said.
Former Cabinet Minister Raphael Tuju said Odede was the country’s unsung hero and should be honoured by the country for his contributions.
Siaya Women Representative Dr Christine Ombaka credited the late Odede for spearheading education in the region and his contribution to agriculture.
“I am happy to be here to celebrate the milestone by Mzee. It is time we honor our leaders and Odede is ranked among the first. We cannot downplay his contribution,” she said.
