Scaling social inclusion for persons with mental health conditions/psychosocial disabilities

Project Location(s): Kilifi County

Project Overview

Kenya faces a profound mental health crisis compounded by systemic inequities that lead to exclusion of persons with psychosocial disabilities. The 2021 Kenya Poverty Report demonstrates that 36% of the population lives below the poverty line. Among adolescents, prevalence rates reveal alarming patterns: depression (26.9%), anxiety disorders (29.8%), and emotional-behavioral difficulties (40.8%). Addressing mental health is therefore crucial for improving the lives of disadvantaged populations.

Research demonstrates the bidirectional relationship between poverty and psychosocial disabilities. Without comprehensive, rights-based interventions, this cycle perpetuates exclusion and violates fundamental human rights to health, dignity, and full community participation.

To address this, Basic Needs Basic Rights (BNBR) Kenya is scaling social inclusion for persons with mental health conditions/psychosocial disabilities through our proven holistic community mental health approach that for two decades has helped build responsive, locally managed community-based mental health systems. This model integrates psychosocial support, system strengthening, livelihood support, and community development.