NAIROBI, Kenya—Thanks to thousands of randomised controlled trials conducted since the middle of the 20th century, countries have developed an evidence-based basis for the treatment and management of mental health diseases.
Understanding the intricate interactions between the social, economic, political, and biological factors that influence mental health has also advanced significantly.
Despite this, the practical implementation of this information has fallen far behind, particularly in low- and middle-income nations like Kenya.
We know what works. We understand why it matters. The question now is: why aren’t we acting fast enough?
Against this information, a growing movement of scientists, practitioners, people with lived experience, policymakers and advocates is forming.
What are the main goals of the 2nd National Mental Health Conference
Preparations are in top gear for Kenya to host the 2nd National Mental Health Conference between October 8 and October 9, 2025, at JW Marriott, Nairobi.
This conference aims to build on the inaugural event’s momentum by addressing the mental health needs of Kenyans through a holistic and intergenerational approach.
Dr. Mercy Karanja, a psychiatrist and the head of the Division of Mental Health at Kenya’s Ministry of Health, disclosed that the conference will bring together diverse stakeholders to discuss emerging issues, develop a roadmap for a mentally healthy future, and explore innovative strategies, best practices, and evidence-based interventions.
“Join us for the second National Mental Health Conference 2025, where we will have experts, policymakers and advocates of mental health coming together to drive meaningful change in mental health care in our country,” said Dr. Karanja.
According to the medic, this year’s conference will feature insightful discussions, innovative solutions, and collaborative strategies on improving mental health access and outcomes.
Why did the Aga Khan University hold a regional conference on mental health
Additionally, the conference will advocate for increased investment and foster collaboration to promote mental health across all life stages.
“Do not miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation. Register now and help shape the future of mental health,” she emphasised.
In Kenya, mental health has drawn more attention in recent years. In July 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) placed Kenya 4th in the highest number of depressed people in Africa and 9th globally; 1.9 million people in the country were said to be depressed by then.
It also emerged that 5 in every 6 Kenyans who suffer from mental illness do not receive treatment. Even though a sizable section of the populace suffers from mental health issues such as substance misuse, anxiety, and depression, access to high-quality care and treatment is still restricted.
To enhance mental health services, national guidelines and training programmes for healthcare professionals are being developed.
In August 2024, the Aga Khan University held the regional conference on mental health in East Africa, an event that highlighted the status of mental health services in the region and shared insights on how to take innovative models of quality mental health services to scale.
The two-day event held at the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and SPA in Mombasa brought together a diverse group of mental health actors, including policymakers, researchers, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), mental health practitioners, people with lived experiences, mental health champions, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), academia, funders, and government ministries, departments, and agencies, to discuss and deliberate on the mental health trajectory in East Africa.
