Taking Mental Health Awareness Mashinani

Inuka Nami Foundation Mental Health Awareness Drive – Mikinduri, Meru

Inuka Nami Foundation in collaboration with Teenvibez Co. recently conducted a meaningful mental health awareness drive in Mikinduri, Meru, engaging members of a local Mama Chama, with a small number of men also in attendance. The session created a safe and open space for conversation, reflection, and learning around mental health — an area many participants shared they had not previously explored in depth.

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During the session, attendees openly expressed how eye-opening and timely the initiative was. Many shared that they did not realize how much they needed such conversations until they experienced them. The discussions left them feeling encouraged, supported, and empowered, with several participants noting that they had learned new self-care practices they intended to incorporate into their daily routines to better manage stress and emotional well-being.

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As part of the outreach, the Inuka Nami Foundation team distributed dry food supplies and sanitary items, which were received with deep appreciation and gratitude by the community members.

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Following the Mama Chama session, the awareness drive extended to the streets of Mikinduri, where the INF team engaged directly with members of the public. Informal interviews were conducted with boda boda riders, matatu drivers, shop attendants, passersby, and individuals spending time in public spaces, exploring their understanding of mental health and its importance in daily life. These conversations revealed both curiosity and a growing willingness to talk openly about mental well-being. Most of the participants expressed their stressors of life and other mental health challenges th

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Participants in the street outreach received dry foods and bar soaps, while boda boda riders were additionally supported with branded reflective safety vests, promoting both safety and visibility while reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to holistic well-being.

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This outreach reaffirmed the importance of taking mental health conversations beyond formal spaces and into everyday community settings. Inuka Nami Foundation remains committed to continuing such grassroots initiatives — breaking the silence, building awareness, and ensuring mental health support reaches people where they are.

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🌿 Together, we rise — one conversation at a time.