Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has raised concern over the state of maternal mental health services in Kenya, warning that thousands of women and families continue to suffer in silence due to gaps in healthcare systems, stigma, and inadequate awareness.
Kibwana highlighted the urgent need to address perinatal mental health challenges, noting that World Mental Health Day serves as a key moment to draw attention to conditions affecting women during pregnancy and up to two years after childbirth.
She emphasized that this period is highly vulnerable, with many mothers and families experiencing perinatal and postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, psychological distress following stillbirth, and other related conditions.
Alarming Statistics on Maternal Mental Health
She cited studies showing that approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety during the perinatal period.
According to Senator Hamida, these conditions pose a serious risk to parenting capacity, early childhood bonding, and overall family wellbeing.
Despite this, many cases remain undiagnosed or untreated due to persistent stigma and structural weaknesses within the health system.
Kibwana further urged the relevant Senate committee to appraise the House on the implementation status of a Senate resolution which called for the promotion and strengthening of mental health facilities for mothers experiencing postnatal psychological conditions.
She questioned whether the resolution had been fully operationalized across national and county health systems.
Calls for Public Awareness and Government Action
She also sought clarity on the Ministry of Health and county governments’ plans and activities aimed at commemorating World Maternal Mental Health Day and promoting public awareness on perinatal mental health.
According to Seantor Hamida, awareness campaigns remain critical in reducing stigma and encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.
In addition, the Senator raised concerns over the availability and accessibility of maternal mental health services in public health facilities.
Kibwana called for detailed information on the presence of trained mental health professionals, counseling infrastructure, and referral systems capable of supporting mothers in need of specialized care.
Stigma and Community Education Remain Key Challenges
Kibwana also pressed for updates on measures being taken to combat stigma and strengthen community education around perinatal mental health.
She stressed that support systems must include both mothers and fathers, noting that paternal mental health is often overlooked despite its influence on family well-being.
Her statement reflects growing legislative attention to mental health as a public health priority, particularly within maternal care.
