This archive report was first published on 19 July 2021.
On July 19, 2021, Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe visited the Chiromo Hospital Group in Nairobi, highlighting the significance of partnerships in promoting mental health care.
The Chiromo Hospital Group is a premier level 5 private mental health facility in sub-Saharan Africa, offering inpatient and outpatient specialized treatment to promote holistic mental wellness.
According to Kagwe, mental health conditions remain a silent epidemic due to stigma, reduced access to treatment, and psychosocial support. He emphasized the need for partnerships in research and development, as well as the implementation of health interventions.
“Through the Kenya Mental Health Action Plan 2021-2025, the National Government working with County Governments and its stakeholders, seeks to strengthen effective leadership and governance for mental health; to implement programmes for promotion of mental health and prevention of mental and substance use conditions; to ensure access to comprehensive, integrated and high quality mental health services at all levels and strengthen mental health systems,” he added.
During his visit, Kagwe underscored the importance of partnerships with investors, both local and international, to provide capacity building, research, and development resources, as well as infrastructure development.
Presidential Advisor on Mental Health, Dr. Frank Njenga, noted that the Chiromo Hospital Group is a psychiatric institution of choice, with facilities that provide a dignified stay for patients. He emphasized the importance of training and partnership, stating that the hospital is already training in the advanced diploma in mental health in collaboration with AMREF International University.
