Kerugoya: Members of the Kirinyaga County Assembly have directed the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Medical Services to allocate additional resources towards the refurbishment of the only Mental Health Unit in the County, located at Kerugoya Referral Hospital.
According to Kenya News Agency, the motion, tabled by the Health Committee Vice Chairperson Grace Kamau, highlighted concerns that failing to allocate additional resources and personnel at the facility could be detrimental to the hundreds of patients visiting monthly. Ms. Kamau emphasized that the facility served 525 outpatient clients in April alone, underscoring the urgent need for an upgrade.
The vice chair further noted that drug and substance abuse complicates the fight against mental illnesses, necessitating concerted efforts to address the issue. She referenced the 2022 NACADA National survey, which indicated an increase in alcohol and cannabis use among youth and young adults, trends that are evident in Kirinyaga.
Kanyekine Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA), Moses Migwi, remarked on the timeliness of the motion and urged for the recommendations to be incorporated into the upcoming budget. Migwi expressed concern that Sh. 400 Million had been allocated for other hospital upgrades, while the Mental Health Unit was overlooked.
Mutira Ward MCA, David Kinyua, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health prevention. He noted that joblessness and drug abuse are major contributors to mental health issues, urging the government to take preventative action.
Kiini Ward MCA and Budget and Appropriation Chair, Geoffrey Gakuru, pointed out that despite the passage of the Kirinyaga County Health Facilities Improvement Fund Act, improvements in health facilities remain stagnant. He criticized the County Public Service Board (CPSB) for recruiting drivers instead of replacing the 60 medical personnel who have left service.
Beatrice Mitaru, representing people living with disabilities, urged the County Executive to enhance access to mental health clinics in remote parts of Kirinyaga County.
