Saturday, 17 May 2025 — Ngaru Location, Kirinyaga County
In a powerful display of community-centred mental health care, Convo Africa held its second grassroots mental health clinic on Saturday, 17 May 2025, in Ngaru after a successful day one, read more here. This initiative is part of the ongoing May Mental Health Campaign under the theme: “Turning Awareness Into Action.” At the heart of the campaign is a simple but transformative belief: when I heal, my community thrives.
The event, hosted in collaboration with local health professionals and supported by the area chief, attracted residents across generations — young and old, men and women. Notably, the elderly made up the majority of those seeking therapy, pointing to a concerning gap in mental health uptake among the youth. This may stem from stigma or limited awareness on the value and availability of mental health support.
In total, 51 patients were seen — a clear sign that the need is there, and more importantly, that the community is responding.
“This clinic is a big deal for our people,” said the area Chief. “Seeing members of my community come out to seek therapy gives me great joy. It means they are ready to heal.”
The clinic provided a holistic entry point into care. Patients began with blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, followed by sessions with a team of clinical officers, psychiatric nurses, psychologists, and medical officers. In total, 51 patients were seen — a clear sign that the need is there, and more importantly, that the community is responding.
At Convo Africa, we believe that conversations that matter, particularly around mental health, create the social infrastructure necessary for individuals and communities to heal, grow, and thrive. By bringing therapy to the grassroots, we’re not just offering services — we’re restoring dignity, promoting dialogue, and shaping healthier futures.
What’s Next?
We return to Ngaru on Friday, 24 May 2025 for another community screening in preparation for a Community Leaders’ Breakfast and Awareness Walk on Saturday, 31 May 2025. The walk, scheduled from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, will raise awareness on Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and highlight the role of community leaders in reducing stigma and advancing mental wellness.
Stay connected to Convo Africa as we continue building a healthier, more compassionate society — one conversation at a time.
