A Tanzanian Member of Parliament, Jesca Msambatavangu, has stirred controversy online after claiming that Kenya is facing a major mental health crisis. Her remarks, made during a session in Tanzania's Parliament, did not sit well with many Kenyans, who felt the statement was disrespectful and uncalled for.
While discussing the challenges faced by Tanzanians living abroad, Msambatavangu singled out Kenya, saying that some Tanzanians living there struggle because of what she described as a widespread mental health issue in the country.
"Kenya has a big mental health problem. This problem also affects our people who are living in Kenya," she said, urging the Tanzanian government to support its citizens residing there.
Her comments quickly spread across social media, drawing backlash from Kenyan netizens. Many expressed anger, arguing that it was inappropriate for a Tanzanian leader to publicly criticize Kenya in such a manner. Some urged her to focus on addressing Tanzania’s own issues before casting judgment on others.
Others took a more measured view, pointing out that mental health is a global issue—not unique to Kenya. They called on leaders to take a more collaborative and compassionate approach to addressing mental health challenges across borders.
Msambatavangu’s remarks have ignited a wider conversation about mental health in East Africa. While the topic is important and deserves attention, many believe that constructive dialogue and cooperation—not blame—are the keys to finding solutions.
Mental health remains a pressing concern for both Kenya and Tanzania, and citizens from both nations are calling on their leaders to work together to improve support and treatment for those affected.
