The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Nairobi Campus is currently hosting a two-week training under the Africa CDC Mental Health Leadership and Advocacy Program, bringing together 52 participants from 11 African countries.

The training, held in partnership with the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), is part of a broader strategy to bridge mental health service delivery gaps across the continent. Participants were competitively selected from over 3,600 applicants, highlighting the growing recognition of mental health as a critical area in public health.

The Nairobi cohort includes countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Ghana, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe. KMTC becomes the fourth host institution for this short course, following successful sessions in Egypt, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe.

Speaking during the official opening, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Sultani Matendechero, who represented the Principal Secretary for Health Standards and Professional Management, Ms. Mary Muthoni, emphasized the urgency of mental health reform in the region. “Mental health must be treated as a public health priority. Institutions like KMTC are central to this agenda by equipping healthcare workers with relevant competencies,” he said.

KMTC Board Chairperson Mr. Joseah K. Cheruiyot welcomed the participants, noting, “Developing human resources for health is essential in achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals. We are proud to be part of this regional effort.”

Echoing this sentiment, KMTC CEO Dr. Kelly Oluoch described the programme as a continental movement and a significant opportunity for the College. “Through this initiative, KMTC reinforces its regional leadership in mental health education and capacity building,” he said.

The training, which will run from May 12 to 23, 2025, covers a wide range of topics tailored to the Eastern African context. Participants are fully sponsored, and support includes air travel, accommodation, conference materials, and certification upon completion.

When Victoria Kamai was growing up in Namibia, she already knew where her future was headed.

“I always dreamed of studying at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC),” she says with a smile.

“My aunt Esther Mvula studied Pharmacy at the University of Nairobi and used to tell me wonderful things about KMTC. She met Mr. Ronald Wasike, now the Registrar, during her time there. Her stories stuck with me,” she narrates.

By the time she was in high school, Victoria had made up her mind.

She closely followed KMTC’s updates on social media, drawing inspiration from the success stories of students making a difference in healthcare.

“Every time I saw a post about students doing great things, I would quietly tell myself, one day that will be me,” she recalls.

After completing her secondary education and scoring strong grades, Victoria took a bold step. She contacted KMTC intending to join.

Fast-forward to March 2025, and her dream finally took flight, literally.

“I landed in Nairobi on March 17, 2025, shortly after 2.00 am. And there it was, the College van waiting to pick me up at the airport,” she says.

“In that moment, my heart was racing. It felt surreal. I couldn’t believe my long-held dream of joining KMTC was finally happening,” she narrates.

When she arrived at the Nairobi Campus, everything had already been arranged, including accommodation and fellow students to help show me around.

Her arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter. She is now taking a Certificate in Medical Engineering.

“Everyone I have met so far has been incredibly friendly,” she says.

Though it was her first time in Kenya, the transition felt surprisingly smooth. One of the things that helped her settle in quickly, she explains, was the familiarity between Kiswahili and her native language, Oshiwambo.

“There is a certain rhythm and closeness between the two languages. Added to the kindness of the students here, really made me feel at home,” she explains.

Victoria won't forget the warmth she gets.

“Every office I walk into, people are kind and helpful. That human touch made a big difference. I really hope KMTC continues to nurture that culture,” she says.

She is already thinking ahead, hoping to pursue a Diploma, then a Higher Diploma, and eventually a PhD.

“My goal is to one day help my country train the next generation of healthcare professionals. KMTC is the best place to study if you want to pursue a career in health. I am so glad I landed here,” she says.

According to KMTC CEO Dr. Kelly Oluoch, the College is likely to admit more students from Namibia in the coming intakes.

“We are finalizing a few logistical issues, and we expect additional students from Namibia to join us, possibly in the September intake,” he said.

He noted that KMTC has a long tradition of admitting international students.

“This is not the first time we have welcomed students outside Kenya. For decades, we have admitted learners from Malawi, DR Congo, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Zimbabwe, among others,” Dr. Oluoch explained.

He added that the College’s growing international footprint reflects its excellence.

“KMTC has become a global brand. Our programs are sought after around the world. We are currently running exchange programs with institutions like the University of British Columbia, among others,” he said.

“When we say we are globally competitive, this is exactly what we mean. Our graduates are in demand internationally, and students from abroad are keen to train with us. We are not just saying it, we are living it,” the CEO concludes.