Teachers’ unions raise concerns over rising cases of mental illnesses

Kirinyaga teachers playing volleyball at Kerugoya stadium on August 23, 2025

The Kenya National Union of Teachers has raised concerns over the high rate of mental illness cases in Kirinyaga county.

The union wants stakeholders, including the government, to come up initiatives that will help in combating the illness by supporting those already affected and helping to prevent the illnesses.

This comes a few days after Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen said the number of people dying by suicide in the region was concerning.

Murkomen, who was attending Jukwaa La Usalama forums in the Central region last week, said Kirinyaga, Nyeri and Nyandarua counties were worst hit, with each losing between five and eight people monthly to suicide.

The CS said his ministry would engage the Crime Research Centre to conduct a research and establish the real causes of the suicides.

“We know men are highly affected by mental illness and are also the ones involved in the suicides,” Knut branch executive secretary David Kanaiyo said.

Speaking during the inauguration of Kirinyaga Teachers Sports Day at Kerugoya stadium on Saturday, he said many men are unable to express their emotions even when going through difficult times, which predisposes them to mental illnesses.

Kanaiyo said the issue is further compounded by stigmatisation that makes it difficult for those affected to seek help due to fear of being segregated.

“This region has lost so many productive men to suicides, which affects the economy. Families are left without breadwinners. This can be prevented if steps are taken to make healthcare available and affordable for people,” he said.

Kanaiyo appealed to Kenyans to embrace those struggling with mental health, saying their support can encourage them to seek help and live normal lives.

Kenya Union of Post Primary Teachers (Kuppet) chairperson in Kirinyaga county, Kinyua Mwaithe, said the sports day was organised to provide a platform for teachers to interact and unwind as the August holiday draws to a close.

“These are some of the activities we’re undertaking in the sector to help our teachers deal with difficulties in life because they have also been affected by mental illnesses,” he said.

Kenya Seed Company chairperson Wangui Ngirici said a large number of Kenyans are suffering from mental illnesses, with most undiagnosed.

She said activities such as sports should be embraced by all government departments and private organisations as they enhance the relationship between workers while helping them to relax.