The Director of Econnect Africa Markben Oluchiri is leading over 50 hikers on an expedition to scale Mt Kenya to recognize the silent battles of mental health people face.
The symbolic hike is part of the “Raise Your Flag” movement and represents the personal mountains people face in their mental health struggles.
In a remarkable endeavour that transcended physical challenges to echo the deeper, often silent battles of mental health, Oluchiri, led over 50 first-time hikers to scale Mt. Kenya for a good course.
This symbolic journey is not just about conquering a physical summit but also represents the personal mental health struggles individuals go through.
A Diverse Cohort for a Common Course
Joining Mr Oluchiri was Mr Andrew Lomosi, the Director of Trisol Engineering, who is championing mental well-being in the energy sector. His presence highlighted the often-overlooked mental health challenges in technically demanding fields.
“We’re here to show that mental health is a universal concern, transcending all professional boundaries,” said Lomosi.
Dennis Mwangi, the managing partner of Thalia Psychotherapy, and Mercy Mwende, the COO of Mindful Kenya, were also part of this trailblazing group. They were accompanied by five mental health professionals representing various specialities.
“Each of us, regardless of our expertise in mental health, has our own battles. This climb is a testament to our shared human experience,” Mwangi shared.
Representatives from the police force and healthcare workers were also part of the climb, symbolizing the mental health challenges in these high-stress professions.
“This climb is about visibility. It’s about showing that even those who care for others need care themselves,” stated a healthcare worker participant who sought anonymity.
Personal Testimonies: A Voice for the Unspoken
Each participant carries a story, a personal testimony that sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by different groups in society.
“We have our mountains to climb and overcome,” said Mr. Oluchiri, emphasizing the metaphor of the hike.
These stories are not just personal; they resonate with a wider audience, offering hope and a sense of solidarity.
Mwende, from Mindful Kenya, shared her journey,
“In the fast-paced world of corporate leadership, mental health often takes a backseat. This climb is my way of bringing it to the forefront, showing that it’s okay to pause and seek help.”
A police officer in the group added,
“In our line of work, showing vulnerability is often seen as a weakness. But today, as we climb, we show that acknowledging our mental health is actually our strength.”
11-year-old chess prodigy Christian Mugambi part of the team
On the team was also Christian Mugambi, an 11-year-old boy who is determined to create mental health awareness among children and youths.
Christian’s climb is part of his ambassadorship for Mindful Kenya’s “Mindful for Schools” program, a program that entails screening children for mental health and offering the required treatment. The chess enthusiast was accompanied by his chess teammate, Jeshurun Oluchiri.
Mercy Mwende, COO of Mindful Kenya, expressed her admiration for Christian’s efforts, saying,
“Christian embodies the spirit we want to instill in young minds — the importance of prioritizing mental health from an early age.”
For Christian, climbing Mt. Kenya was not just a physical challenge but a metaphorical climb, highlighting the need for mental health awareness and support in educational settings.
It’s a call to action for schools and communities to prioritize mental wellness and provide support for the youth navigating these crucial aspects of their lives.
Christian likened mental health to his favourite sport, chess.
“In chess, every piece is important, just like every person’s mental health. Sometimes, feeling sad or scared is like a tough chess game. But every game has a way to win, we just need to find it. When I play chess, I carefully plan my moves to win. It’s the same with mental health—we need a plan to be better,” said the 11-year-old.
More than just a climb
This hike is more than a physical endeavour; it is a powerful statement on the importance of mental health. It is about breaking down the stigma and fostering a culture of openness and support.
The initiative aims to inspire conversations, encourage empathy, and promote understanding, paving the way for a world where mental health is as prioritized as physical health.
As these individuals ascended Mt. Kenya, they carried with them a message of resilience, hope, and the importance of mental health awareness.
Their journey is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that even in the face of daunting challenges, support, understanding, and a shared sense of community can help us overcome our personal mountains.
As this group of diverse individuals made their way to the summit, they’re not just raising a flag for mental health; they’re raising awareness, breaking barriers, and building a community of support and understanding.
Their journey is a powerful reminder that it is okay not to be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
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