Four people in 10 suffer from mental illness, making it one of the major health challenges the country.

Principal Secretary for Medical Services Harry Kimutai told a parliamentary committee that the Mathari Mental Hospital is overstretched and can not cope with rising cases.

“The State plans to relocate the Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH) from its current location since it can no longer cope with the raising cases,” Kimutai said when he appeared before the Public Investments Committee on Social Services, Administration and Agriculture.

He said mental health is a crucial determinant of the overall health and socioeconomic development of a country. It influences individual and community outcomes such as lifestyle and education attainment.
According to the ministry, mental illness affects at least 25 per cent of the population, with depression and anxiety being the most prevalent conditions.

Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated mental health challenges with the economic downturn, social isolation and uncertainty, increasing the burden.

“Interventions are needed to address mental health challenges in Kenya, especially for vulnerable populations such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and those living in poverty. This aligns with the Constitution of Kenya 2010, Vision 2030, the Kenya Health Policy (2014-2030), and global commitments,” said the PS.

Kimutai (pictured) said his ministry will spend over Sh5 billion to move MNTRH from Mathare to Ngong, where a modern facility is set to be established.

The PS said plans have already been put in place to relocate the facility situated at Mathare Valley to a 200-acre piece of land in Ngong in Kajiado County.

“The government hopes the new facility will provide better care and more rooms and ease pressure on staff that is currently being witnessed at Mathari Hospital,” he said.