FTK embarks on mental health education in Moshi
KILIMANJARO: A Moshi-based Non-Governmental Organisation, the Foundation for Community Transformation in Kilimanjaro (FTK), has launched a community education programme aimed at raising awareness and strengthening public understanding of mental health issues.
The initiative is designed to equip community members with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to mental health challenges at the local level.
Speaking on Monday during a four-day seminar in Moshi, FTK Chief Executive Officer Lazaro Urio said the programme was developed following a survey which revealed significant gaps in the capacity of local leaders to support individuals experiencing mental health difficulties.
“Our findings showed that many leaders at village and ward levels face challenges in effectively assisting people dealing with mental health problems. This programme seeks to address those gaps,” said Mr Urio.
He added that the seminar was organised in collaboration with mental health specialists from Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) Zonal Referral Hospital and partners from the Netherlands.
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“When people encounter distress or crisis, their first point of contact is often community leaders including government and religious leaders. This training is intended to provide them with the knowledge and understanding necessary to offer appropriate support,” he explained.
Participants included teachers, religious leaders, health workers and local government officials from Arusha Chini in Moshi District, Kilimanjaro Region.
Mr Urio noted that FTK plans to expand the programme within Moshi District and across Kilimanjaro Region, with the goal of eventually scaling it to other parts of the country.
Opening the seminar, Moshi District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr Juma Mombokaleo commended FTK, KCMC and their Dutch partners for the initiative, noting that it aligns with government efforts to address the growing burden of mental health issues in Tanzania.
“The government, through the Ministry of Health, continues to collaborate with stakeholders to provide mental health education, including sending specialists to community gatherings and public meetings,” said Dr Mombokaleo.
He pledged the district’s continued support to ensure the programme’s sustainability, emphasising that increased mental health awareness can help prevent crises and contribute to national development.
Presenting during the seminar, Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at KCMC, Dr Kim Madundo, cited international statistics indicating that one in four people experiences mental health challenges, with more than seven million Tanzanians currently affected.
“Many individuals facing mental health problems have struggled with life pressures for a long time without finding solutions. Strengthening coping skills through education is among the most effective preventive approaches,” he said.
Moreover, a mental health specialist from the Netherlands, Dr Rolf Schwarz underscored the importance of reaching young people early.
“Youths are the foundation of every nation. It is crucial to introduce mental health education in schools, where children and adolescents can be reached more effectively for health promotion and prevention of conditions that may lead to mental health problems,” he said.
