Prof. Catherine Gachutha Champions Mental Health and Gender Justice During Awareness Month
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By John Kariuki
Prof. Catherine Gachutha, Director of the Kenya Institute of Business and Counselling Studies, is leading a national conversation this May as Kenya marks Mental Health Awareness Month. At the heart of her advocacy is a powerful call to link mental wellness with the fight against gender-based violence.
“Behind every case of gender-based violence is a life affected not just physically, but emotionally,” Prof. Gachutha notes. She emphasizes the urgency of addressing the often-overlooked psychological scars left on survivors—wounds that can linger long after visible injuries have healed.
Under her leadership, the Institute promotes a holistic approach to mental health—one that includes creating safe spaces, strengthening social protection, and championing gender-responsive policies. These pillars, she says, are vital in supporting emotional wellbeing and enabling long-term healing for those affected by violence.
“This month and beyond, I encourage all Kenyans to speak with compassion, listen without judgment, and uplift those around us,” Prof. Gachutha says. “We all have a role in creating environments that support healing and resilience.”
As the country reflects on mental health this May, Prof. Gachutha’s message is clear: mental wellness and gender justice are deeply connected—and tackling both requires empathy, collective action, and commitment from every sector of society.
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