The Mombasa Women Empowerment Network, a locally based lobby group, has launched an ambitious campaign aimed at providing much-needed assistance to mentally challenged individuals within the community. The initiative, which commenced on Wednesday, seeks to facilitate the treatment and rehabilitation of these individuals, offering them a renewed sense of hope and dignity.
Amina Abdalla, the chairperson of the organization, addressed the media in Mombasa, emphasizing the importance of extending a helping hand to those often marginalized in society. "We want to assist the less fortunate, more so the mentally challenged, so that they can live a life of dignity," she stated. Abdalla highlighted that mentally disabled persons, like all citizens, are entitled to their constitutional rights, which include access to healthcare and social support.
The campaign has been structured to provide specialized care and attention to the beneficiaries. A special unit has been established by the organization to ensure that after receiving treatment, individuals continue to receive the necessary support to aid their recovery. This initiative is set to target a total of 100 people, with operations being conducted on a weekly basis.
On the first day of the exercise, the organization's staff actively engaged in identifying and assisting mentally challenged individuals at various locations, starting from Bamburi Mwisho along the Old Malindi Road and concluding at the Makadara Grounds. By the time of reporting, five individuals had been successfully assisted.
Amina Abdalla expressed the organization's future aspirations, stating, "Mental disability is like any other illness. We are looking forward to extending our wings to other counties in the region and beyond." This expansion is aimed at reaching a broader demographic, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from the program.
The chairperson also called upon the public to play an active role in this initiative by alerting the organization about any mentally challenged individuals in their neighborhoods who might require assistance. This community involvement is crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing the care they need.
The Mombasa Women Empowerment Network's campaign represents a significant step towards addressing mental health issues in the region, promoting inclusivity and the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their mental health status.
