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{
    "id": 1399378,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1399378/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 82,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Lemaletian",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "proportions - an indication of enormous social challenges and unmet needs at the social level. Stigma and discrimination are major barriers to the improvement of the mental health and well-being of the population as they contribute to the violation of the human rights of people with mental and psychosocial disabilities. Furthermore, inadequate investment in mental health worsens the situation by limiting their inclusion in the community. I urge this House to prioritize responsive budgeting, which would lead to a higher allocation of funds that will buttress the formulation and implementation of mental health policies and intervention strategies. In this regard, I wish to propose the following measures, which I strongly believe would help in the improvement of the mental health of many Kenyans- (1) Funding for Awareness and Training: Increase funding for mental healthcare professionals and incorporate mental health modules in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to encompass life skills and resilience training that would address the alarming rates of psychological disturbance, especially suicidal behaviour among adolescents. (2) Mainstreaming Mental Health: Expand mental health awareness programmes, launch anti-stigma campaigns and ensure Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and emergency chronic and critical illness coverage for comprehensive mental healthcare services. (3) Taxation and Compliance: Review the national tax policy to allocate the recommended Kshs250 per capita for mental healthcare from the current amount of 15 cents. (4) Increase Budget Allocation: Strengthen health financing laws to allocate more funds to procure and equip mental healthcare centres and improve such services across all counties. (5) Digital Management System: Implement a digital health management system that would enhance data collection and monitoring of mental health services. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, these recommendations aim to address the urgent need for improved mental healthcare services and support in Kenya, particularly for vulnerable populations. Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir."
}