Health stakeholders in Mombasa County have urged the national government to employ more psychologists to help address the growing mental health challenges in the country.
According to Changamwe Sub-County Adolescent and Youth Coordinator, Kennedy Micheni, increasing the number of psychologists will also create more job opportunities for health officers.
Micheni further called on the Mombasa County government to allocate more resources to the health sector.
“Mombasa County should invest more resources in the health sector to enhance service delivery,” he stated.
He also urged the national government to devolve mental health services to ensure easier access for local communities.
“Mental health services should be devolved to allow easier access for locals,” Micheni added.
Meanwhile, Pwani Youth Network Programs Coordinator, Saumu Hussein, encouraged young people to take advantage of available health services by visiting health facilities more frequently.
“These services are meant for us. I urge all youths to visit these facilities and seek the necessary care,” she emphasized.
Hussein also called on the county government to create a more youth-friendly environment in health facilities.
“Some youths feel intimidated because they are usually served by older health officers. The county should ensure inclusivity and comfort for all,” she noted.
On her part, Pwani Youth Network Liaison Officer, Judy Obado, expressed concern over the increasing mental health challenges in Mombasa, attributing the crisis to economic hardships.
“We have a very tough economy, and this has led to a surge in suicide cases. Mental health issues are real, and many youths are struggling due to unemployment,” Obado said.
She further urged the county government to allocate funds for mental health programs.
Likoni Sub-County youth activist, Beatrice Mwangu, raised concerns over communication barriers between health officials and young people, which she said hinder effective service delivery.
“One of the main challenges is the communication gap. We need more young people working in health facilities to make it easier for us to share our thoughts,” Mwangu stated.
She highlighted unemployment as a major contributor to mental health struggles among the youth.
The youth leaders spoke to the media on Wednesday during a three-day youth training program organized by Pwani Youth Network.
