Mental health stakeholders in Kisumu have launched an ambitious campaign aimed at creating awareness of mental wellness and encouraging residents to seek help without fear of stigma.

Speaking during a press briefing ahead of the Kisumu mental wellness walk and expo on Friday, May 22, 2026, organisers and health experts said the event seeks to provide a platform for education, screening, fitness, and open conversations around mental health challenges affecting people across all age groups.

According to the organisers, the initiative focuses on promoting mental wellness while also amplifying conversations around climate change, environmental sustainability, diversity, equity, inclusion, and health.

Kisumu County Mental Health Coordinator Raphael Ombura said mental health issues continue to silently affect many people in society, including students, parents, and the elderly, with many suffering in silence due to fear and stigma.

“We are gathered here for a purpose bigger than ourselves in a bid to promote mental wellness and wellbeing. Many people carry invisible burdens that affect their productivity and quality of life,” Ombura said.

Kisumu Wellness Centre

He noted that Kisumu County has already established wellness centres across all 35 wards to help residents access screening and counselling services for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Ombura added that trained community health assistants are currently offering mental health support services at the grassroots level, helping residents identify mental health challenges early and seek appropriate care.

“We want to send a strong message that it is okay to speak up, it is okay to seek help, and it is okay to support one another as a community,” he said.

KMTC Kisumu Deputy Principal Dr Andrew Malit, who is also a psychiatric nurse, emphasised the growing need for mental health awareness and training among healthcare providers.

He revealed that KMTC has introduced mental health training components across all courses, ensuring that every student graduating from the institution has knowledge of mental health care regardless of their field of study.

“Mental health is not only for psychiatric specialists. Pharmacists, nutritionists, medical engineers and all healthcare providers interact with patients facing mental health challenges,” said Dr Malit.

The expo

The expo will feature mental health screening services, counselling sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, fitness activities, and networking opportunities.

Organisers said psychiatrists and counsellors from Kisumu County Hospital and other mental health institutions will be available throughout the event to offer free screening and professional support.

On Sunday, participants will take part in two wellness walks: a 13-kilometre fitness walk for experienced participants and a five-kilometre family-focused walk designed to accommodate children, senior citizens, and persons living with disabilities.