Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa has urged increased investment in mental health to address the rising burden in Kenya.
Speaking during a visit to Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital today, Dr. Barasa emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary approach and highlighted mental health as a key priority under the government’s universal health agenda.
She further noted the significant gap in access, with only 19 counties having mental health facilities, and pledged to develop policies to expand mental health services nationwide.
Meanwhile, Mathari’s CEO, Dr. Julius Ogato, called for more funding, currently at just 0.04% of the total health budget, and better training for mental health specialists.
He also stressed the importance of reducing stigma through public education.
Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenya’s largest mental health facility, serves as a key player in the nation’s mental health care system with a capacity of 800 beds and 350 staff members.
