Government Launches National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness

Nairobi, Kenya - 14th September 2023 - The Ministry of Health took a significant step today by unveiling the National Guidelines on Workplace Mental Wellness. Acting Director General of Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, led the launch on behalf of Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nakhumicha S. Wafula in an event held at Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital. 

 

 Approximately 3.7 million Kenyans, out of 24.9 million in the workforce, grapple with mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar mood disorder.  “These new Workplace Mental Wellness Guidelines, developed by the Ministry of Health, emphasize promotion, prevention, care, and support,” said Dr Amoth. 

 

 According to the guidelines everyone in any working organization should be included in the wellness journey with employees required to engage in selfcare, coping skills, seeking social support and care, while employers are required to enhance supportive working environment that can easily link employees to care and provide necessary resources to operationalize the guideline,

Kenya's government has long recognized mental health's importance, aligning reforms with the Universal Health Coverage Policy and international standards. 

 

The Mental Health Action Plan (2021-2025) further solidifies Kenya's commitment to mental health alongside its economic and sustainable development goals.

Dr Joyce Nato, from WHO said working people, deserve an inherent right to the highest attainable standards of mental health at work regardless of their type of employment.