Executive Director ACCTI, Ms Florence Busiega and Eng. Edward Mburu posing with Staff from Amani Counseling Centre Training Institute

Kenyans have been urged to break the silence surrounding mental health challenges, warning that stigma, fear of judgement and the cost of professional care continue to prevent many people from seeking help.

Amani Counseling Centre and Training Institute (ACCTI) notes that individuals, families, students and employees may be struggling with emotional and psychological distress without receiving the support they need.

The call was made during the launch of the Amani Walk for Mental Wellness 2026 at the institution’s headquarters along Raila Odinga Way in Nairobi on Friday.

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The walk is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary in Nairobi, bringing together individuals, families and institutions to promote open conversations about mental health and encourage early access to professional support.

Speaking during the launch, Amani Executive Director Florence Busiega said people experiencing mental health challenges may continue with their daily responsibilities while silently battling distress, making it difficult for those around them to recognise their struggles.

“The absence of a cry for help does not mean the absence of suffering,” Ms. Busiega said.

She noted that students facing academic pressure, employees dealing with personal difficulties and families supporting loved ones need safe environments where they can discuss mental health concerns without fear of shame or discrimination.

Ms. Busiega called for greater compassion, early intervention and accessible professional support, particularly for people who hesitate to seek help because of stigma, fear of judgement or financial constraints.

Beyond awareness

Amani says the campaign seeks to turn mental health awareness into practical action beyond commemorative events.

Held under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the initiative aims to amplify the voices of people who have experienced mental health challenges and encourage communities to respond with empathy rather than judgement.

The institution emphasised the need to create safe spaces where people can share their experiences, be listened to and access appropriate care.

“A person who is struggling should not have to become a statistic before we pay attention,” Ms. Busiega said.

The campaign calls on individuals and institutions to challenge stigma, listen without judgement and take practical steps to support mental wellness in homes, schools, workplaces and communities.

The initiative follows World Mental Health Day, marked annually on October 10, and seeks to sustain public engagement on mental health and the importance of timely support.

The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.