Celebrating 120 Years of Excellence: Transforming Mental Health Care MNTRH
Dr. Rebeccah Kiptui, CS Health Representative celebrated the 120th anniversary of Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, reflecting on its evolution from a smallpox isolation center in 1904 to Kenya's leading mental health institution. She highlighted key milestones, including its transformation into a National Teaching and Referral Hospital in 2013 and its transition to a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency in 2020, which improved its management and service delivery.
Dr. Kiptui commended the hospital’s growth, noting its role in supporting 82 institutions and serving thousands of patients across Kenya and East Africa. She recognized the dedicated staff for their professionalism and congratulated retirees for their long service, emphasizing the lasting legacy they leave behind.
She stressed the importance of mental health and encouraged the public to prioritize it alongside physical health. Dr. Kiptui also praised Mathari for its progress in registering with the Social Health Insurance Authority (SHA), which would improve access to mental health services.
Dr. Kiptui concluded by acknowledging the leadership of the hospital’s management team for their vision and commitment to expanding care, expressing confidence in the future of mental health care in Kenya. She offered her blessings to all present and wished them continued success in their roles at Mathari.
CEOs Remarks: Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital today celebrates an incredible milestone—120 years of dedicated service to the people of Kenya. The occasion was marked by vibrant celebrations, including dancing and feasting, bringing together staff, patients, and distinguished guests.
In a special ceremony, CEO Dr. Julius Ogato commended the hospital’s staff for their unwavering commitment and exceptional performance, which have contributed to establishing Mathari as a leading institution in mental health care.
The event also featured the presentation of the “Employee of the Year” awards, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication in their roles. Additionally, Dr. Ogato honored 28 retirees for their exemplary service and significant contributions to the hospital over the years.
In his address, Dr. Ogato expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government for prioritizing mental health care and urged continued support, including increased funding, to further assist individuals affected by mental health challenges. He also praised the President for championing the establishment of the new Scheme of Service for Mental Health (SHA) and assured his full support to ensure that both Mathari patients and members of the public are registered under the scheme.
Dr. Ogato acknowledged the challenges associated with registering clients, particularly due to the lack of identification documents among many patients. However, he reassured that the hospital, in collaboration with the SHA team, is working to facilitate the registration process through the use of a unique patient identifier, ensuring all patients have access to the care and treatment they need.
Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing mental health care in Kenya, guided by its motto: "Healing Minds: Restoring Lives & Touching Families."
Board chair remarks.
During the 120th-anniversary celebration of Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, the Board Chair's representative, Bernard Kaparo, welcomed all invited guests and expressed gratitude for their presence on this momentous occasion. He commended the hospital staff and management for their unwavering commitment, highlighting their role in making Mathari a center of excellence in mental health care.
In his remarks, Mr. Kaparo announced the launch of a groundbreaking initiative: Kenya’s first-ever mental health call center. The 24/7 helpline will provide immediate access to mental health support, staffed by trained professionals ready to offer guidance and referrals. This initiative aims to remove barriers to care, particularly for individuals who may be unable to visit in person, while also addressing the stigma surrounding mental health.
