This archive report was first published on 24 April 2020.
With the COVID-19 pandemic causing widespread disruption in Kenya, the psychological toll on citizens is becoming increasingly evident.
As the rate of infection rises, thousands of people are required to physically isolate, exacerbating the challenge.
Government measures to contain the spread of the virus, including mandatory quarantine guidelines, are welcome but have raised concerns over increasing mental health issues.
For many Kenyans, the outbreak has changed the way they live, work, socialize, travel, exercise, and shop, leaving them feeling anxious, scared, and depressed.
Restrictions on movement have also led to increased instances of child abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse, and other psychological problems.
Healthcare professionals, policymakers, and public and private entities must work together to mitigate the effects of restricted movements, quarantine, and isolation measures.
Absa Bank Kenya PLC has partnered with Minet Kenya Insurance Brokers to provide psychosocial support to affected citizens through a care line dubbed the Covid-19 Wellness Care Line.
The programme will initially be rolled out to those in quarantine facilities, isolation centers, their families, and healthcare workers.
Through the Ministry of Health, the bank will proactively reach out to Kenyans in designated quarantine facilities and offer them counselling support.
“During these difficult times, Kenyans need access to additional help in order to cope with the mental and emotional distress of the pandemic, especially those in vulnerable and stressful situations,” says Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director Jeremy Awori.
Minet Kenya Chief Executive Officer Sammy Muthui added that the partnership with Absa is their way of giving in the fight against the pandemic.
“We recognise that this is a challenging time and we encourage anybody who is experiencing psychological distress to reach out to us through 20204# and our counsellors will provide the support that you may require,” Muthui said.
