Bridging Minds and Peace — Reflections from Nairobi’s MHPSS & Peacebuilding Training

integration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Peacebuilding (PB).

Travel Tuesdays with Kinana Munene

Nairobi, 2nd April 2026.

From March 30th to April 2nd, 2026, the serene setting of the Golden Tulip Hotel in Nairobi became a hub of dialogue, learning, and collaboration as stakeholders gathered for a transformative four-day training on the integration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Peacebuilding (PB).

The conference brought together a diverse group of participants representing key institutions, including the Nairobi County Health Office, Probation Aftercare Service Partnerships Unit, Rural Women Peace Link, Inter-Religious Council of Kenya, Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation, University of Nairobi, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, and multiple state departments including Gender and Affirmative Action, Children Services, and Correctional Services.

Understanding the Nexus

At the heart of the training was a shared objective: to deepen understanding of the critical link between MHPSS and peacebuilding. Participants explored how mental health and social wellbeing are not only affected by conflict but are also essential components in sustaining peace. The sessions emphasized the complementarity and interdependence of these two fields, highlighting that healing individuals and communities is foundational to long-term stability.

Opportunities, Challenges, and Co-Creation

The training provided a platform to identify both the opportunities and challenges in integrating MHPSS with peacebuilding initiatives. Through interactive discussions and group work, participants co-created practical interventions that could be implemented within their respective sectors.

These conversations also culminated in actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening integration efforts across the Great Lakes Region (GLR), reinforcing the importance of collaborative, cross-sectoral approaches.

ICGLR-TRF keynote speaker, trainers and staff during the confrence.

Voices That Inspired

A powerful keynote address by Tegla Loroupe left a lasting impression on attendees. She passionately spoke about equality in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV), challenging the often one-sided narrative.

Loroupe referenced the late Samuel Wanjiru, whose tragic death she linked to the broader impacts of GBV. Her message was clear: GBV affects everyone—men and women alike—and addressing it requires inclusive, honest conversations.

Echoing her sentiments, Hon Dora Byamukama urged participants to draw inspiration from Loroupe’s work and to actively seek partnerships with organizations like the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in amplifying impact and driving sustainable peace initiatives.

Hon Dora Byamukama ICGLR-RTF senior consultant

A Step Toward Lasting Impact

As the training concluded, there was a shared sense of purpose among participants. Beyond the exchange of ideas, the gathering fostered new partnerships and renewed commitment to integrating mental health and peacebuilding in meaningful ways.

Travel Tuesdays this week reminds us that sometimes the most impactful journeys are not about distance, but about depth—of understanding, connection, and shared humanity. In Nairobi, that journey brought together minds and hearts determined to build a more peaceful and mentally resilient society.

ICGLR-RTF staff during the confrence.