Psychiatrists Call For Government Support For Shakahola Survivors

Psychiatrists have called on the government to provide mental health support to the survivors of the Shakahola tragedy.

The tragedy occurred in May 2023, when 65 people were found dead in a camp in Shakahola, Kenya. The victims were followers of cult leader Paul Mackenzie, who had promised them a better life. However, they were instead subjected to abuse and neglect.

The survivors of the tragedy are now facing a number of challenges, including physical and psychological trauma. Psychiatrists say that they need specialized care to help them recover.

“The survivors of the Shakahola tragedy have been through a lot,” said Boniface Chitayi, president of the Kenya Psychiatric Association. “They need our help to get back on their feet.”

The government has not yet responded to the psychiatrists’ call for help. However, Chitayi is hopeful that they will do so soon.

“We need to act now,” he said. “The survivors of the Shakahola tragedy are suffering, and they need our help.”

In addition to providing mental health support, the government should also help the survivors to reintegrate into society. This could include providing them with housing, education, and job training.

The Shakahola tragedy is a reminder of the importance of mental health. It is also a reminder of the need for government intervention to protect vulnerable people from abuse.

The government should take the lead in providing support to the survivors of the Shakahola tragedy. They should also work to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.