Mental health challenges in Nairobi's informal settlements: A call to action

The streets of Nairobi’s informal settlements and Kiambu County tell a story of struggle. Young people are facing a mental health crisis, caught in a web of unemployment, violence, substance abuse, and trauma. The numbers are stark: high rates of school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, and psychological distress. In Kiambu County, a recent report highlighted a disturbing trend of youth suicide cases linked to drug addiction, cyberbullying, and parental neglect.

But amidst the challenges, there’s a glimmer of hope. In partnership with Mission Aachen, YOUNIB (Youth Network for Interreligious Brotherhood) has been working tirelessly to support vulnerable youth. Through school outreach, community dialogue forums, and counseling sessions, they’ve reached over 2,400 young people in the past two years. Their peer counseling clubs and youth-led media engagements have been a game-changer, amplifying mental health awareness and advocacy.

However, YOUNIB knows that there’s still much work to be done. Limited resources, inadequate funding, and a shortage of professional mental health workers are just a few of the hurdles they face. That’s why they’re calling for support to make their vision a reality: a dedicated Rehabilitation and Youth Resource Centre that would provide a safe space for young people to access the mental health support they need.

This centre would be more than just a building – it would be a beacon of hope for young people struggling to find their place in the world. It would offer a chance for them to heal, to grow, and to thrive. And with the right support, YOUNIB can make it happen.

So, let’s join forces to address the mental health crisis in Nairobi’s informal settlements and Kiambu County. Your contribution, whether financial, expertise-based, or through resources, can help create a lasting impact in the lives of Kenyan youth. Together, we can make a difference.