By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, December 10 2025 - Gender and Affirmative Action Principal Secretary Anne Wang’ombe has sounded the alarm over a growing mental health crisis among young people, citing increasing cases of depression, alcohol abuse and substance use in Nyeri County and other parts of the country.
Speaking during a mental health sensitization forum at the Nyeri National Polytechnic on Wednesday, Ms Wang’ombe said the situation is now a national concern, with families, learning institutions and communities bearing the brunt of the crisis. She noted that the Government has placed mental health at the centre of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), with a renewed push to strengthen community-level support, integrate mental health into the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme and ensure that every county has accessible services.
“Our youth are facing unprecedented mental health challenges. The rising cases of depression, alcohol and substance use continue to affect families and undermine overall community wellbeing,” she said.
The event formed part of the activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism campaign and International Human Rights Day, bringing together government officials, health specialists, civil society organisations and student groups working to break stigma and expand access to support.
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Ms Wang’ombe said the Government’s strengthened response reflects its commitment to protecting the wellbeing and dignity of all Kenyans, adding that early intervention and community awareness are key to reversing the trend. She urged parents, teachers and community leaders to be more proactive in identifying signs of distress and creating safe spaces where young people can seek help without fear of judgement.
“Mental health is not just a medical issue, it is a community responsibility. We must all play our part in ensuring our young people feel supported, valued and heard,” she said.
The PS pledged continued collaboration with counties, faith groups, educational institutions and grassroots organisations to scale up mental health programmes, improve referral systems and ensure that vulnerable youth receive timely assistance.
