This archive report was first published on 26 July 2019.
On July 26, 2019, the Kenyan government announced plans to train and hire more psychiatrists to address the country's mental health crisis. The move comes as the country struggles with a shortage of mental health professionals, with only 106 psychiatrists serving the entire population.
Speaking at a workshop in Nairobi, Director of Mental Health Dr. Samuel Njuguna highlighted the need for more specialists in the department. He noted that most of the existing psychiatrists are employed in the private sector, leaving a significant gap in public healthcare.
According to Dr. Njuguna, at least 5 million Kenyans are suffering from mental health disorders, with the figure potentially higher due to the lack of a systematic method of collecting data. He also pointed out that many people are reluctant to seek medical attention due to the stigma associated with mental health.
The government's plan to train and hire more psychiatrists is part of a broader effort to improve mental health care in the country. The initiative includes training 500 mental health nurses and developing a policy framework to support the sector.
Dr. Njuguna emphasized the need for a systematic approach to collecting data on mental health, as well as a sensitization program to reduce discrimination and stigma against mental health patients.
