On October 14, 2025, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, hosted a key delegation from Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicines at Afya House to discuss an important partnership aimed at improving access to mental health medicines in Kenya. The meeting, which was led by Ms. Sanae Mousannif, General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Johnson & Johnson, focused on strengthening collaborative efforts to enhance mental health care in the country.
The partnership underscores the growing need for enhanced patient care, particularly for individuals living with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. The two parties agreed on the importance of innovative treatment solutions that improve the quality of life for those affected by mental health disorders. Johnson & Johnson emphasized its commitment to providing access to advanced medicines and therapies that can make a significant difference in the lives of patients.
A key part of the discussions involved exploring ways to integrate technology and innovation into Kenya’s healthcare system. By streamlining patient journeys, the Ministry of Health and Johnson & Johnson aim to make healthcare more efficient and accessible, particularly in underserved areas. This collaboration is also focused on improving the overall healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that mental health patients receive not only the medicines they need but also the comprehensive care and support that are essential to their well-being.
Through this partnership, both entities are reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing mental health care in Kenya. The goal is to make essential medicines more readily available to all Kenyans, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. The collaboration is a step toward addressing the ongoing challenges of mental health care access in the country, with a specific focus on the treatment of schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.
In conclusion, this partnership represents a significant milestone in the efforts to tackle mental health issues in Kenya. By working together, the Ministry of Health and Johnson & Johnson are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to mental health care, with the ultimate aim of improving the lives of those living with mental health conditions across the nation.