Kenya Mental Health Policy 2015-2030: Towards Attaining the Highest Standard of Mental Health

Abstract

The Kenya Mental Health Policy 2015-2030 provides for a framework on interventions for securing mental health systems reforms in Kenya. This is in line with the Constitution of Kenya 2010, Vision 2030, the Kenya Health Policy (2014- 2030) and the global commitments. The Constitution of Kenya 2010, in article 43. (1)(a) provides that “every person has the right to the highest attainable standard of health, which includes the right to healthcare services” 1. This necessarily includes mental health. The 65th World Health Assembly adopted Resolution WHA65.4 on the global burden of mental disorders and the need for a comprehensive coordinated response from the health and social sectors at country level. Subsequently, during the 66th World Health Assembly, Resolution WHA66.8 was adopted. It called on member states to develop comprehensive mental health action plans in line with the Global Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020.