Mental health cases rise in Uasin Gishu as county steps up interventions

Uasin Gishu county is grappling with a growing mental health burden, with more than 4,000 cases now recorded, according to county data.

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Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea said the steady rise over the past three years points to a deepening crisis and gaps in access to care.

“These figures reflect the complexity of mental health challenges and variations in access to care and reporting,” he said.

The data shows Ainabkoi subcounty remains the most affected area and a top priority for intervention.

Kesses and Moiben have reported gradual increases, largely due to heightened awareness, while Kapseret, Soy, and Turbo have recorded slight declines, attributed to improved outreach and reporting practices.

“Our response must remain data-driven, inclusive and adaptive. We are strengthening our data systems and prioritising high-burden areas for targeted interventions,” Kapkea said.

He spoke during an event aimed at scaling up mental health interventions.

Health services executive Joseph Lagat said individuals registered under the Social Health Authority can access free mental health services at the Moiben Rehabilitation Centre.

Kapkea said those diagnosed with mental health conditions continue to receive follow-up care and support.

Deputy speaker Sarah Malel and majority leader Julius Sang pledged legislative backing for the ongoing programme.

“We are committed to ensuring our staff remain mentally and physically fit because prevention is better than cure,” Malel said.

She also proposed setting up gym facilities for county staff to promote fitness and mental wellness.

“Mental well-being is key. As an Assembly, we stand with the Executive in ensuring mental stability across Uasin Gishu,” Malel said.

Chief officer for promotive and preventive health, Paul Wangwe, said the county’s three-month rehabilitation programme has transformed many lives, with plans underway to establish another centre at Kamalel.

Kapkea said mental health programmes must be inclusive. “No one should be left behind — even in times of crisis. Mental health is not a privilege; it is a human right,” he said.

Wangwe also highlighted Governor Jonathan Bii’s efforts to expand access to mental health care, including the establishment of the County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Rehabilitation Centre at Moiben Sub-County Hospital, with plans to replicate similar facilities across all sub-counties.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

The rising number of mental illness cases in Uasin Gishu reflects a broader national trend of growing awareness and reporting of mental health challenges. While the county’s leadership is taking commendable steps—such as expanding rehabilitation centres and offering free treatment under the Social Health Authority—the figures underscore a deepening public health concern.

The data-driven and inclusive approach outlined by Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea signals a shift toward structured mental health governance. However, sustaining progress will require consistent funding, trained personnel, and community-level engagement to reduce stigma and ensure mental health is treated as a basic human right, not a privilege.