DEFENCE FORCES WELLNESS CENTER CONDUCTS SENIOR OFFICER’S AND OFFICERS MENTAL AWARENESS FORUM

A mental health forum themed “Family Enrichment” was held at Langata Barracks in support of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month, that has been focusing on “Building Resilience”.

The forum, jointly organized by the Defence Forces Wellness Center (DFWC) and the Chaplaincy from Christ is the Answer Ministries-Karen (CITAM) was aimed at sensitizing Senior Officers and Officers on mental health issues and promotion of overall psychological well-being.

The Chief of Kenya Army Medical Services and Chief Psychiatrist Brigadier (Dr) Japheth Ndegwa in his opening remarks, recognized the essential need for mental health talks in dealing with the daily uncertainties of life.

“Mental health awareness is a universal concern as it is one of the cornerstones to building emotional awareness, self-care, psychological resilience and military excellence. This initiative aims to raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and encourage an open, supportive environment where mental wellness is prioritized.” He said.

Brigadier Edward Nyamao; Chief of of Compensation and Welfare (C&W) at the Defence Headquarters noted that the forum aimed to create awareness on the conditions affecting officers and explore avenues of seeking help.

“Mental health issues are not solely clinical issues and cannot be overcome within the health system alone. We therefore are calling for a cross-sector approach that goes beyond health policies.” he added.

The seminar covered an array of key mental health topics, including marriage and family, family finances, stress management among others. The sessions provided a safe space for open dialogue, helping to address modern day issues and encouraging participants to seek help and support from one another without fear of judgment.

The initiative is part of KDF’s broader strategy to foster a resilient, informed, and compassionate workforce where mental health is recognized as an essential pillar of operational readiness and overall wellness.

In attendance was the Garrison Commander Brigadier Hussein Dida, Colonel (Dr) Stella Mwangi, Senior Officers and Officers and service members. The seminar was facilitated by mental health professionals from the CITAM including Reverend Ferdinand Ponga, Dr. Dan Mugera, Mrs. Janet Kimutai and Mrs. Violet Bukusi, who offered expert insights, practical coping strategies, and insights on access to current mental health resources.