Mental resilience is as critical to military readiness as physical fitness, discipline and operational capability. Recognising this, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) commemorated World Mental Health Day through activities at Moi Air Base (MAB) and Kenya Navy Base (KNB) Manda, championing psychological well-being, confidentiality, early intervention and a supportive military environment.
Held under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the commemorations brought together military personnel, families, welfare professionals and partners to challenge stigma, encourage open dialogue and promote access to mental health support.
At Moi Air Base, the Base Commander, Brigadier Herbert Wafula, emphasised that mental wellness must remain central to personnel welfare and operational preparedness. He noted that demanding military assignments and prolonged separation from families expose personnel to psychological pressures, underscoring the importance of accessible professional support.
Representing the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) Chairlady, Mrs Grace Kahariri, the Head of Health Pillar, Mrs Knight Lekolool, encouraged military families to speak openly and seek assistance without fear of judgement. She highlighted MWAK’s wellness initiatives, including the Lang’ata Wellness Centre and the proposed Lived Experience Champions programme aimed at promoting peer support.
The Chief of Compensation and Welfare at Defence Headquarters, Brigadier Rodah Mwasigwa, underscored the direct relationship between psychological well-being and operational effectiveness, describing the mental and emotional resilience of personnel as the foundation of military capability.
At KNB Manda, the Deputy Base Commander, Colonel Dickens Kombo, rallied personnel from the Base and troops deployed under Operation Amani Boni (OAB) to cultivate a culture of trust, confidentiality and mutual support.
The NACADA Lamu County Coordinator, Ms Lucy Wairimu, highlighted the relationship between substance abuse and mental health challenges, advocating preventive education, early intervention and responsible leadership.
Across both locations, awareness processions, personal recovery testimonies, spiritual reflections and creative performances reinforced the message that seeking help is a demonstration of strength, not weakness.
The rallying call, “Let’s Stop Stigma, Talk Confidentiality,” captured the shared commitment to protecting personal dignity, respecting lived experiences and creating safe spaces for those seeking assistance.
The commemorations reaffirmed the KDF’s commitment to a holistic welfare framework that recognises mental wellness as a strategic pillar of force readiness, family stability and mission effectiveness.
A healthy mind builds a resilient soldier. A resilient soldier strengthens the force.
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