World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024

Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital commemorated World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, under the theme "Prioritizing Mental Health at the Workplace." The event featured an awareness walk along Thika Road, led by Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa.

CEO Dr. Julius Ogato welcomed guests and advocated for increased funding for mental health services, including a dedicated psychiatric ward. He emphasized the importance of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for workplace mental well-being. The event highlighted partnerships, with gratitude extended to sponsors such as Johnson & Johnson and the Rotary Club of Milimani for their contributions, including the donation of seedlings.

Dr. Kokonya, Chair of the Kenya Board of Mental Health, addressed the critical absence of a national health master plan, which currently limits access to mental health services for only 15% of those in need. He called for a comprehensive national strategy to improve care and reduce stigma.

Dr. Charity Muraguri, representing the Board Chair of Mathari Hospital, urged the Ministry of Health to establish mental health and substance abuse facilities in every county to enhance accessibility.

CS Dr. Barasa emphasized the impact of mental health disorders on 3.7 million Kenyan workers and announced the launch of Kenya’s National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness. She called for collaborative efforts to strengthen mental health resources, including educational initiatives. Additionally, she presented the hospital's Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, aimed at enhancing the quality of mental healthcare and promoting overall societal well-being.

The event culminated in the unveiling of the hospital's first strategic plan, aligning with its vision and mission to improve mental health services nationwide.