Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya (BNBR) is a nationally registered Public Benefit Organization (PBO) that has been actively involved in mental health initiatives since 2005. BNBR operates in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and various stakeholders within the mental health sector. Over the years, we have honed our capabilities in the implementation of community mental health programs that are person-centered, rights-based and focused on recovery.
This is informed by our belief that addressing mental wellbeing and illness goes beyond just health systems, given that mental wellbeing and illness themselves are not simply health issues, but have social and economic causes and effects. Our interventions thus focus on the clinical, economic, and social wellbeing of individuals, as well as the resilience and wellbeing of their communities, ultimately resulting in a community that values the mental health and wellbeing of all its members.
Our Philosophy
VISION
MISSION
As an organization, we believe in, and are guided by the following ideals:
Inclusion: We endeavour to facilitate inclusion at all levels without discrimination on the basis of religion, tribe, sex or any other basis.
Respect: Respect for and safeguarding of human rights and dignity is an overriding consideration in all our actions.
Diversity: We are sensitive to, respect and consciously draw from the diversity in peoples’ identities, cultures, knowledge, abilities and practices.
Integrity: We uphold ourselves to the highest levels of truthfulness, honesty, openness and uprightness, and commit to doing the right things as a matter of principle.
Transparency and Accountability: We uphold stakeholders’ trust through consistent open and prudent administration of fiscal and other resources entrusted to us.
Our Founding Members
Chris Underhill
Founder
Chris Underhill is a social entrepreneur and global mental health leader - founder of BasicNeeds (and ADD/Thrive), co-founder of citiesRISE, Chair of Catalyst 2030’s Mental Health Collaboration, widely active in governance across major social impact bodies, and an MBE (2000).
Eng. Peter Maina
Founding Board Chairperson
Peter Maina was the Founding Board Chairperson at Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya. He has been an Impact Investor for almost thirty years, having chosen to regularly donate, a proportion of his professional expertise well since before that term became widely used. With a particular soft spot for people with mental health conditions, his drive is a passion to see people grow to their full potential and joyfully give back to society’s well-being. A Management Consultant in corporate strategy, health systems and operations management for the public, not-for-profit and business sectors, his foundational discipline remains Engineering.
Joyce Kingori
Founding Executive Director
Joyce King'ori was the Founding Executive Director and served from 2005 to 2018.
Our Governance Team
Dr. Boniface Chitayi
Board Chairperson
Dr. Chitayi is a Consultant Psychiatrist and currently the President of the Kenya Psychiatric Association, the Mental Health Advisor to the National Committee on Criminal Justice Reforms and a member of the national steering committee on alternatives to incarceration for persons who use drugs in contact with the criminal justice system. He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery and a Master of Medicine in Psychiatry, both from the University of Nairobi. He also holds awards for Best Student in Master of Medicine in Psychiatry at the University of Nairobi for the academic year 2017/18 and Champion of Change during the 2021 Kenya Psychiatric Association Mental Health Awards.
Boniface has been trained on the World Health Organisation QualityRights program and Mental Health Leadership and Advocacy by the WHO collaborating centre of Ibadan University, Nigeria, as well as in Leadership by the African College of Neuropsychopharmacology. He was a member of the organizing team of the Kenya National Mental Health Conference, 2019 and presided over the Kenya Psychiatric Association Annual Scientific Conference in the years 2021 and 2022. He has more than 12 years of experience as a doctor with 8 years working in mental health providing Psychiatric services and has been a frequent columnist on mental health with articles published in major local newspapers.
CHRP Grace Nzula
Board Vice Chairperson
Grace is an experienced HR professional with over 13 years specializing in Winning People and Culture (P&C) Strategies, Organization Learning & Development, Training and Compliance.
She is a Tripple Award winner Knowledge Impact award (2023) and the Most Inspiring Female HR and HR Trendsetter in Kenya (2021). Grace is passionate about training, empowerment, and mentorship, which she achieves through content creation in learning and development, training and speaking in conferences.
Grace is currently pursuing a Master of Science (Human Resource Management) at Moi University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Media Studies) from the University of Nairobi. She is a Certified HR Professional – CHRP (K), Certified Professional Mediator, Certified Professional Trainer, ICF Certified Coach, Emotional Intelligence Coach, a practicing member of IHRM, member of WISE, a Board Member at EPZA, Chair of the HR committee, Chair of the Board of Trustees EPZA Pension Scheme and HR advisor to the Board of Several Private Companies.
Grace is the host of Get It Right with Atarah Solutions and is passionate about entrepreneurship. She also participates in mentorship programmes and tree planting as part of her environmental and social responsibility.
Charles Muhia
Board Treasurer
Mr. Muhia exercises oversight over the Finance and Admin function of the Strathmore Research and Consultancy Centre (SRCC) by Ensuring that financial controls are in place. Timely preparation of accurate and quality overall financial reports of SRCC. He handles quality assurance matters and addresses all operational matters.
Mr. Muhia has over eight years of experience in Finance and Accounting. His professional experience cuts across finance, administration, program management, process automation, and project management. He currently sits on the Board of Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Management Science double major. He is also a Certified Public Accountant of Kenya and has completed the Program for Management Development at Strathmore University Business School.
Dr. Susan Muthoni Magada
Board Member
Dr. Magada holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery and a master’s degree in Psychiatry and Mental Health both from the University of Nairobi. She has wide experience working as a consultant psychiatrist in different hospitals in Kenya and, worked at the Ministry of Health as the Deputy Director of Mental Health. Following the promulgation of the Kenya Constitution 2010, Susan became a pioneer County Executive Committee Member for Health in Mūranga County and served as CECM until 2017. Following her retirement from the civil service, she is now a private practitioner based in Nairobi. She specializes in general clinical psychiatry, also providing other mental health services to the community.
Clement Kabuti
Board Member
Mr. Kabuti is a Kenyan public administrator who serves as Deputy Director of Policy Planning, Research, Innovations and Data (PPRI&D) at the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) of Kenya. He plays a key role in institutional strategic planning, risk management, advancing education policy reforms, promoting data-driven decision-making, and expanding employment opportunities for Kenyan educators locally and internationally. He also oversees the research and data models that govern teacher staffing allocations and recruitment forecasting. He has demonstrated abilities in modernizing teacher career frameworks and engineering bilateral agreements for Kenyan professionals abroad.
Clement brings extensive expertise in national macro-planning, public policy, and institutional governance. He serves as a strategic link between grassroots mental health advocacy and national policy frameworks. His governance oversight focuses on expanding systemic impact, advancing digital innovation, and protecting the rights and economic livelihoods of vulnerable populations across Kenya.
Winnie Onyango
Board Member
Winnie is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and the Managing Partner of Winnie Onyango Law Advocates, where she provides strategic leadership in the firm's legal practice, business development, and client relations. She is an accomplished legal practitioner with over seven years of experience in commercial and civil litigation, employment law, debt recovery and conveyancing.
Throughout her career, Winnie has advised individuals, businesses, financial institutions, and corporate entities on a broad range of complex legal matters. She is recognised for her strategic legal insight, analytical ability, and commitment to delivering practical, results-oriented solutions while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical practice.
As Managing Partner, Winnie leads a client-centred law firm, overseeing legal strategy, regulatory compliance, organizational management, and the delivery of high-quality legal services. Her leadership experience and understanding of corporate governance, risk management, and institutional accountability enable her to contribute effectively to strategic decision-making and board oversight.
She is honoured to serve as a Board Member and looks forward to contributing her legal expertise, leadership experience, and strategic insight in advancing the organization's mission, strengthening its governance framework, and promoting sustainable growth for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Peter Kimanthi
Board Member
Peter is a seasoned finance and governance professional with over 25 years of experience in financial management, accounting, risk management, and business strategy across various sectors including the private, public and NGO sectors. Over the years, he has held senior management roles, including Managing Director, Chief Operating Officer, Group Head of Process Improvement, General Manager, Head of Operations & Compliance, General Manager Finance & Operations among others, overseeing entire operations in organizations/departments in both local and multinational corporations and NGO’s.
He holds a Master's Degree in International Business Administration (Strategic Management), a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (Accounting) and is certified with CPA-K and CPS-K. Peter is committed to promoting accountability and ethical business practices, ensuring the highest standards of corporate governance in every organization he serves.
Peter is the current Chair of the Organization Development Committee (ODC) of the Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya Board.
Meet our A Team
Lina Ndulu
Operations and Human Resource Manager
Jachtolinah is a passionate purpose driven HR and Operations professional who believes that strong, supported teams are the heartbeat of any successful organization. With over 15 years’ experience, she has successfully supported organizations across diverse sectors, helping them build strong HR foundations that align with their mission, culture and strategic goals.
She is a certified mediator, a member of the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM), and currently pursuing her CHRP Certification. She holds a postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Relations, a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management (HR Major) and a diploma in Management of Human Resources. She has also completed a training in Strategic HR Leadership, HR Management, and Project Management.
Her core strength lies in HR policy development, set-up of effective HR systems, HR audits, compliance labor relations, recruitment and performance management, with a focus on driving efficiency, compliance, and building inclusive, empowering workplaces.
While working in the NGO sector, she served as a Child Safeguarding HR focal point person, leading efforts to promote safe environments for children and vulnerable communities. In this role, she championed the development of safeguarding policies and trained staff to uphold high child protection standards.
Known for her approachable leadership style and commitment to positive organizational culture, she thrives when helping individuals grow and supporting teams to thrive. She brings not just technical skill but heart, empathy and a strong belief in the power of people.
Geoffrey Khira
Programs Manager
Khira Geoffrey is a passionate mental health and human rights advocate with a professional background as a Medical Psychologist, Clinical Researcher and Programs Manager. He strives to make a significant impact in improving mental health service provision in Kenya, region and globally. For more than 5 years, he has been championing for the rights of persons with lived mental health experience and support, additionally offering services that are aimed at addressing the gaps in mental health care.
His role at Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya as Programs Manager has been extensive from designing to implementing programs aimed at addressing mental health challenges among youth and the broader society, whilst working with diverse stakeholders, including educational institutions, policymakers, health professionals, relevant advocates and stakeholders and the wider local communities. He leads all capacity building initiatives and trainings of different target audiences, and subsequent needs assessments and reporting plus the curriculum development and delivery on matters mental health.
He is also dedicated to global mental health advocacy as he seats on the Advisory Board of the Global Mental Health Action Network, representing the African continent. His role allows him to collaborate with other influential advocates and researchers worldwide, ultimately amplifying the impact of his work in Kenya. Additionally, he was recognized for his exceptional abilities and was handpicked to participate in a prestigious mentorship/fellowship program with the Ember Foundation, further honing his skills and expanding his knowledge in the field of mental health and human rights.
Jefferson Ponde
Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Research Lead
Jefferson has over eight years of experience in Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation having supported the implementation of governance, health, and livelihoods programs for a number of funding agencies, including the Global Fund, USAID, and UKAID. He has worked for Africa Capacity Alliance, Keeping Alive Societies Hope, and World Vision Kenya, ensuring the implementation of measurement and evaluation frameworks as well as the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive picture of program performance. Jefferson Holds an undergraduate Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Health from Kenyatta University and certifications in various professional courses, including Monitoring and Evaluation, Project Cycle Management, Salesforce administration, Research Ethics among others.
Rebecca Mbaya
Finance Manager and Interim Executive Director
Rebecca is a seasoned finance and accounting professional with a robust track record in implementing international finance and accounting standards. Her journey in finance began with foundational roles in corporate finance, where she honed skills in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Transitioning into the non-governmental organization (NGO) ten years ago, Rebecca has demonstrated exceptional ability in managing complex financial operations. Her expertise includes grant management, financial reporting, compliance and risk management which has been pivotal in managing funding from diverse sources. She has successfully led finance teams, implemented efficient financial systems and fostered a culture of accountability and transparency.
Rebecca holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce (Double major in accounting and finance) from Strathmore University. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of Institute of the Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
Musa Gathuru
Partnerships and Fundraising Officer
Musa is a published author and passionate about writing, including travel writing, productivity and personal knowledge management systems. He has a varied background including work in graphic design, book publishing, audio video tech and the IT industry. He also has 15 years of experience volunteering with Kenya Sign Language.
Eugene Wanekeya
Communications, Advocacy and Project Officer | Safeguarding Lead
Eugene is a versatile Communications, Marketing and Advocacy Specialist with over 10 years of experience working with teams across government, multinational corporations, non-profit organizations and SMEs. He has coordinated the development and execution of successful awareness and behaviour change campaigns across multiple sectors, with his ability to seamlessly integrate into any multicultural corporate context, enhancing his ability over the years to comfortably and exceptionally deliver results.
Eugene holds a Master of Arts in International Studies from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication from Daystar University.
Dennis Mwiti
Project Officer
Dennis is a dedicated and skilled community development professional with extensive expertise in mental health, social inclusion, and project management. He is passionate about supporting vulnerable communities, and has a proven track record of building sustainable support networks, fostering community engagement in social care, and connecting individuals to essential resources.
As a mental health advocate, Dennis has spearheaded initiatives to establish social care networks within communities, promoting inclusion for individuals with mental health conditions and disabilities, particularly in marginalized areas. He has also designed and implemented school programs aimed at enhancing adolescents' mental well-being and has trained teachers to support these efforts effectively.
In his career, Dennis has served as a Program Assistant and currently works as a Project Officer, contributing to community projects through strategic planning and hands-on involvement.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Community Development from Moi University, Dennis combines theoretical knowledge with practical expertise to empower communities, foster resilience and inclusion, and promote sustainable growth.
Erick Ochieng
Project Officer
Eric is a hands-on Community Development Officer enthusiastically working in collaboration with all players for the purpose of achieving a productive connection with the community. He has over five years of experience working with rural small holder farmers in socioeconomic empowerment programs with a focus on livelihoods and mental health. In addition, Eric has over ten years of experience in conducting participatory Intergraded Community Development trainings for various community populations, having worked extensively as a field officer with Western Kenya Community Driven and Flood Mitigation project.
He is also versed in Behavior Change Communication programs with a focus on Sexual Reproductive Health, HIV/AIDS and WASH majorly working with youth and married adolescents. Prior to joining Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya, Eric worked as SRHR advocacy officer with Center for the study of Adolescents (CSA) and as HIV/AIDS and Malaria prevention program focal officer with Populations Services Kenya (PSK). As a community development worker, Eric is well experienced on the use of appropriate target population interaction approaches that factors the socio-economic and cultural status of the audience. Eric holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Development Studies from Mt. Kenya University, and a diploma in Social Work and Community Development. His interests include performing, scripting and directing theatre art works.
Job Monyoncho
Project Officer
Job is a results-driven professional with a proven track record of success. With a creative mindset and strong problem-solving skills, he excels in developing visionary solutions. His extensive experience in Business Development highlights his ability to drive portfolio growth.
Job is a dedicated team player with a strong work ethic. His innovative concepts and commitment to community impact make him a valuable asset for this role that requires strategic thinking and impactful project execution.
Job is versatile, hands on, and always ready to take up any challenge and that’s the energy he brings to our family!
Julian Onyango
Project Officer
Julian has over 15 years of experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating behavioral intervention programs to support health and well-being outcomes. He is committed to promoting the integration of the rights-based approach in community mental health programs.
OJ also offers lived experience leadership in BNBR's mental health and well-being programs and is trained in community development and counselling.
Eleanor Ushindi
Procurement Officer
Eleanor is a Procurement and Operations professional with 8 years of experience supporting NGOs, social enterprises, and private sector organizations across 23 counties in Kenya and international markets including Ghana, Rwanda, Senegal, India, Singapore and Eswatini. She is passionate about building practical procurement systems that help teams deliver complex programs with integrity, efficiency, and value for money.
At Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya, Eleanor has played a central role in scaling the procurement function. She leads end-to-end sourcing for goods, services, and works and supports program-critical procurements in line with donor and regulatory requirements.
With a background in Purchasing and Supplies Management (BSc), Eleanor brings a strategic, analytical, and people-centred approach to procurement ensuring that organisational resources are deployed responsibly to maximize impact for communities.
Paul Ochieng'
Finance Officer
Paul Ochieng’ is a finance practitioner with over 5 years of experience in nonprofit accounting and finance practices. He has previously served as a finance assistant and finance intern at Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya, and as an intern at the Credit Control Department of a major university institution. Paul is passionate about mental health and is an advocate in denouncing stigma and discrimination against people with mental health conditions. He is committed to advocating for the rights of persons with, survivors of, and persons at increased risk of having mental disorders in the community.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce – Finance Option from the Multimedia University of Kenya.
Winrose Nyakio
Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant
Winrose is a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) professional passionate about using data to drive impactful decision-making in humanitarian and business settings. With expertise in data collection, analysis, and visualization, she applies tools such as Power BI, Tableau, SQL, and Python to deliver actionable insights and strategic improvements. Her skill set spans Data Analysis, Data Science, and Monitoring & Evaluation, and her work includes developing research tools, optimizing data processes, and applying statistical and predictive methods to solve complex challenges. Committed to diversity, inclusion, and ethical practices, she strives to ensure that data-driven solutions create meaningful impact for communities, organizations, and individuals alike.
She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Actuarial Science from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, alongside additional training in Data Science, Data Analysis, and Monitoring & Evaluation.
Janerose Nduta
Finance Assistant
Janerose is a multifaceted professional. She has a degree in business and information technology, and has also dabbled in other fields of her interest such as accounting and psychology. Her diverse skillset and her drive to want better lives for all persons makes her an invaluable member of the team.
She is driven by the quote: "If I'm involved in changing just one life, even slightly, by making living with a mental health condition easier, I will have lived a well fulfilled life."
Eunice Muthoni
Administrative Assistant
Eunice is currently the longest serving member of staff at Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya having been with the organization for over 17 years. She has vast experience in workplace housekeeping, livelihoods training for marginalized communities, and coordinating community participation in socio-economic development through occupational therapy. She also supports the finance and programs teams in filing, clerical duties and logistics. She is also a trained chef and uses this skill to work with people with psychosocial disabilities as part of their recovery and restoration activities.
Martin Mungai
Logistics Assistant
An alumni of the Ministry of Public Works and Mechanics School, Martin has over 25 years of experience in the motor vehicle industry, having trained in motor vehicle mechanics up to grade one, worked as mechanics trainee at South End Motors and later joining the team. He joined Jesuits Refugees Services and later worked for Amani Counselling Center for 14 years as a driver. He currently coordinates logistics at Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya, and also works as a driver in the organization, though this for him is more of a passion than a job.
Francis Dzombo
Driver
Francis is a driver by profession with over 10 years experience driving over various terrains across Kenya. He enjoys traveling to different destinations as it gives him an opportunity to explore and interact with different communities and appreciate the cultural diversity. Francis is dedicated and passionate about his work because he understands the important role logistics plays in ensuring smooth flow of our programs at BNBR. Presently, he is coordinating logistics for our Kilifi field office.
Loureen Onyango
Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant
Loureene is a Research, Monitoring and Evaluation professional with a strong background in mental health, public health, gender, and adolescent health. She has supported the design and implementation of qualitative and quantitative studies for several non-governmental organizations. Loureene has contributed to projects funded by international bodies, producing high-quality reports, engaging stakeholders, and supporting research-to-policy initiatives.
She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Service Management from Kenyatta University and has completed professional certifications in Clinical Research, Good Clinical Practice, Data Analysis, Research Ethics and Behavioral Science in Public Policy.
Sharone Mukhamiah
Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant
Sharone is a Monitoring and Evaluation professional with over three years of experience in development projects, backed by a strong academic foundation in Statistics. She has contributed to program success by supporting data collection, analysis, and reporting, while also building the capacity of communities to engage meaningfully in project implementation. With a passion for evidence-based decision-making and continuous learning, Sharone leverages data-driven insights to inform strategies, improve outcomes, and foster accountability. Her commitment to community empowerment and participatory approaches ensures that the projects she supports not only deliver measurable results but also strengthen local ownership and sustainability.
