Health Ministry honours Dr Moraa, launches mental wellness programs

Health CS Debra Barasa. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The Ministry of Health has launched comprehensive workplace mental wellness programs to support healthcare workers nationwide.

In a statement on Wednesday, Health Cabinet Secretary Debra Barasa explained that the program, which has been developed in partnership with County Governments, will establish a strong support system for healthcare workers nationwide.

"The program will ensure that those facing challenges no longer feel isolated," said Barasa.

The initiative follows the tragic death by suicide of Dr. Desree Moraa, a 26-year-old medical intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital.

“Words cannot fully capture the profound sorrow and shock of losing someone so young, dedicated, and full of potential,” stated Barasa.

Yesterday, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) urged the government to prioritise the working conditions of healthcare professionals.

KMPDU Secretary-General Davji Atella described Moraa's death as a stark indication of the deep-rooted challenges facing Kenya's healthcare system.

"Dr. Desree was an intern at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital, working under extremely difficult, hazardous, and undignified conditions that compromised her safety and well-being," said Atella.

The union also warned that continued neglect of unpaid or underpaid healthcare workers would further jeopardize their safety and infringe upon their basic rights.

"The system failed Dr. Moraa, as it has failed many others before her. It is broken and continues to put healthcare workers' lives at risk," Atella added.

Dr. Moraa died by suicide on Sunday night, and her body was found hanging from her apartment balcony.