Mental Health care in Kisumu is expected to improve following the launch of Kisumu Mental Health Workplace Policy.
The policy was unveiled on September 29, during a two-day Mental Health Conference 2026 hosted by Tinada Youth Action Africa, which brought together various stakeholders in the mental health sector.
Tinada Youth Programs Officer Amon Otieno termed the move a great milestone, coming at a time the country is struggling with mental health cases.
“Most adults spend their time in work environments, yet the workplaces are not designed to take care of their mental health. This document will unlock this,” said Otieno.
A key highlight in the policy is the creation of committees within work places to champion mental health rights. The committees are expected to lead awareness creation, while helping with contextualization of the policy at the organizational levels.
The policy also provides for referral structures for people suffering mental health to be able to get help.
“Another key aspect of the policy is the role of the county in the funding of mental health, as well as other partners,” said Otieno.
According to Nyakach Sub County Mental Health Coordinator Milton Maina, through the help of Tinada, the county government has already begun the implementation of the policy, especially at the health facilities.
He noted that people have been suffering in silence, a situation which has made it difficult to respond to mental health.
“Managing mental health begins with awareness, and we are glad that this is a stepping stone that will open up so many issues and people will come out to talk about it,” said Maina.
He said the document has provided clear guidance of mental health management, and that there is need for increased resources targeting mental health.
“The committees will also advocate for funding of any other services associated with mental health,” he said.
CBM Global which provided funding and technical support to ensure fruition of the policy noted that developing the document was widely consultative, hence comprehensive.
Edwin Osundwa, the Country Director for CBM Global said there was need for more funding to ensure the policy is successfully rolled out.
“Formulating a policy addresses the aspect of awareness. The implementation stage would require more resources, and it is necessary for the county government to take a lead in ensuring integration and measured in terms of its impact,” said Osundwa.
