At Wake na Vijana Initiatives (WVI), our initiatives extend to mental health advocacy, with a special focus on addressing the pressing challenges faced by women and youth in Kenya.
According to WHO, data from 2021 indicates that 1 in 4 people who seek healthcare in Kenya have a mental health condition with cases of alcohol and substance abuse on the rise. Mental health issues are having a devastating socio-economic impact on communities already grappling with poverty and lack of access to resources. The impact is further compounded by stigma surrounding mental health issues often stemming from ignorance and harmful beliefs.
At WVI, we are committed to promoting mental well-being, reducing stigma, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or gender, has access to the support and resources neede.
Through targeted awareness campaigns, mental health education initiatives, stigma reduction efforts, and partnership with like-minded organizations, we aim to break down barriers preventing women and youth from seeking the help they need. We seek to empower these individuals to prioritize their mental health, offer them the support they deserve, and advocate for policies that prioritize mental well-being.
Our unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy for women and youth in Kenya aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
By focusing on women and youth, and addressing their specific mental health challenges, we strive to contribute to a healthier, more inclusive society where the mental well-being of Kenya’s women and youth is value