By Dr Isaak Harun Hassan
September 2025, Nairobi — The Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association (KCPA) held a Mental Health Wellness Walk aimed at raising awareness on the critical importance of mental health in the country. The event was graced by notable leaders and mental health advocates, including Hon. Wafula Wamunyinyi, Professor Catherine Gachutha, and Dr. Issack Hassan.
Dr Harun Isaak Hassan, a Professor at Umma University and a member of Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association noted the need for the repealing of the penal code so that mentally sick individuals are punished for being sick
The walk sought to sensitize Kenyans, the government, and political leadership on the urgency of addressing mental health issues and the need to reduce stigma associated with mental illness.
Hon. Wafula Wamunyinyi emphasized the growing need to establish professional counselling services across all institutions, noting that a significant number of workers are silently battling mental health challenges. “Mental wellness is not a luxury, it is a necessity,” he stated, urging both public and private sectors to prioritize the integration of mental health support in workplace environments.
Professor Catherine Gachutha, a leading expert in psychotherapy, underscored the importance of seeking professional psychological services. She highlighted the critical role of trained counselors in mental wellness and advocated for the recognition of psychotherapy as essential healthcare. “Mental health services should be treated like any other form of medical care — accessible, professional, and compensated,” she said.
Dr. Issack Hassan brought attention to the urgent need for legal reforms concerning mental health. He specifically highlighted the pending amendment of Section 226 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes attempted suicide. “It is unacceptable that individuals battling severe mental distress are being imprisoned instead of receiving support and treatment,” he remarked. Dr. Hassan called on lawmakers to fast-track the decriminalization process to ensure that those struggling with mental illness are treated with compassion and provided with the necessary care.
The KCPA Wellness Walk served as a powerful platform to unite stakeholders from across sectors and reinforce the message that mental health is a national priority. As conversations around mental wellness continue to grow, the call for systemic reforms, improved access to services, and the eradication of stigma remains more pressing than ever.
