A high-level meeting convened at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital has called for a multisectoral approach to addressing longstanding challenges in forensic psychiatry, with a focus on safeguarding the rights and dignity of patients, strengthening legal frameworks, and expanding specialized care.
The meeting, chaired by Correctional Services Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco, brought together key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the National Police Service.
Dr. Beacco emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between mental health care and legal processes, noting that effective reintegration of forensic psychiatry patients into society depends on a coordinated, evidence-based strategy.
“Let us seize this moment to explore bold, lasting strategies – strategies that will not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for essential reforms,” she said.
Acknowledging that forensic psychiatry patients often require treatment in secure environments, the PS announced plans to register all such offenders with the Social Health Authority to guarantee access to proper care. She also proposed introducing vocational training at Mathari Hospital, facilitated by trainers from the Kenya Prisons Service, to support rehabilitation and skill development.
Since January, Dr. Beacco revealed, the Ministry has produced 133 social assessment reports, providing psychiatrists and clinicians with vital insights for crafting individualized and contextually appropriate treatment plans. These reports have also aided the judiciary, ODPP, courts, and the Power of Mercy Advisory Committee (POMAC) in assessing criminal responsibility, trial fitness, and rehabilitation prospects.
Dr. Julius Ogeto, CEO of Mathari Hospital, welcomed the initiative, highlighting persistent challenges such as underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and outdated legal policies, which have hindered the institution’s ability to fully deliver on its mandate.
Stakeholders agreed that meaningful reform in forensic psychiatry must be rights-based, inclusive, and cross-sectoral, with collaboration across the criminal justice and health systems to promote humane and effective mental health care for justice-involved individuals.
Written By Rodney Mbua
