By Michelle Ndaga
The Government of Kenya has achieved a major milestone by integrating mental health services into the national insurance benefits package for the first time under the Taifa Care Model and the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The move marks a significant step toward strengthening access to comprehensive healthcare and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all Kenyans.
Speaking during the opening of the 2nd National Mental Health Conference–2025 in Nairobi, themed “Securing the Future: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health for Generations,” Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale said the inclusion of mental health care in the national insurance package reflects the government’s dedication to equitable, inclusive, and sustainable health services.
CS Duale emphasized that the Ministry of Health is transforming how mental health is perceived, financed, and delivered, guided by the Mental Health Act, 2023, and the Kenya Mental Health Policy. These frameworks recognize mental health as a fundamental human right, guaranteeing dignity, access, and protection for all Kenyans living with mental illness.
He also highlighted the decentralization of mental health services to the community level through 107,000 digitally empowered Community Health Promoters (CHPs), who deliver early and person-centered interventions closer to households, a key reform in the rollout of the Taifa Care Model.
“For the first time, mental health services are now part of the national insurance benefits package, ensuring that no Kenyan has to choose between caring for their mind and feeding their family. This is the true meaning of ‘Afya Bora kwa Wakenya Wote’ quality healthcare for every Kenyan, without financial hardship,” said Duale.
At the 2025 UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health, the CS reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to building sustainable and inclusive mental health systems and championing Africa’s unified voice for mental well-being, positioning the country as a continental and global leader in mental health advocacy.
The three-day conference brings together key stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, and development partners to deliberate on emerging mental health issues and develop a roadmap for a mentally healthy nation.
