Launch of National Advisory Committee for Kenya's First Mental Health Survey-MNTRH

Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital Participates in Launch of National Advisory Committee for Kenya's First Mental Health Survey
Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital is proud to have participated in the inauguration of the National Advisory Committee for the National Baseline Mental Health Survey, a groundbreaking effort that will deliver Kenya's inaugural comprehensive national data on mental health issues. Our Acting CEO, Dr. Lawrence Nderi, led the hospital's delegation at the Ministry of Health-led meeting, where the committee was officially launched. Chaired by Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth and represented by Dr. Bashir Issak, Head of Family Health, the committee will offer essential oversight and strategic guidance.
Dr. Issak emphasized how this survey fills a vital void identified in the 2020 Taskforce on Mental Health report, which pointed out the lack of detailed national figures on prevalence rates, treatment disparities, and socio-economic factors. Dr. Amoth highlighted that although Kenya boasts a dedicated mental health policy, its rollout has faced challenges due to resource constraints. He referenced the 2021 Mental Health Investment Case, which calls for strategic investments to broaden services and bridge care gaps.
This survey aims to produce nationwide statistics, create a foundational benchmark for tracking advancements, and shape future policies, funding decisions, and service enhancements. Joining the event were key figures including Ms. Khatra Ali, Director of Health Services; Dr. Mercy Karanja, Head of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health; and Prof. Lukoye Atwoli, Dean of the Aga Khan University Medical College, East Africa, alongside other stakeholders. As Kenya's leading mental health institution, Mathari Hospital is committed to supporting this initiative and contributing our expertise to improve mental health outcomes across the nation.