Championing Healthier Communities,
Free from Substance Abuse
MWASA is built on a simple premise: mental wellness is a right, and recovery from substance abuse is possible when met with compassion, community, and support. We are a registered grassroots NGO based in Bukura, Kakamega County.
The 12.5% Challenge in Kakamega
In Kakamega County alone, an estimated 12.5% of the population struggles with mental health conditions and substance abuse. This translates to over 233,000 individuals, many of whom are youth.
Tragically, Kenya has fewer than 500 psychiatrists serving a nation of 55 million. The gap in accessible care leaves thousands vulnerable. MWASA was born to bridge this gap through community-based education, early intervention, and peer support networks.
"We cannot wait for the crisis to reach the hospitals. We must bring healing to the community."
Our Mission
To advance multi-disciplinary efforts in the promotion of healthy behaviors and prevention of substance misuse through training, support, public awareness, and advocacy.
Our Vision
To be a recognised leader in resource enlightenment and dissemination of high quality, innovative harm reduction and supportive strategies.
Our Core Values
Compassion
Approaching every individual with empathy, dignity, and zero judgment.
Confidentiality
Maintaining the highest standards of privacy and trust in all our support services.
Community
Believing that true healing happens through shared experiences and collective support.
Evidence-Based
Providing care and programs grounded in proven psychological and social science.
Leadership & Team
Meet the dedicated professionals and community advocates driving MWASA's mission forward.
Board Members
Carolyn N. Odongo
Board Member (Patron)
Holder of an MSc in Psychology with a focus on Mental Health and Wellbeing, she is an experienced HR professional and CIPD member, with extensive expertise gained from working across the UK, UAE, and Kenya. The recent loss of her sibling to illicit alcohol has deepened her commitment to supporting and advancing the objectives of MWASA.
Esther Nyakoa Nyamwati
Board Member (Chairlady)
Esther, holder of an MA in Rural Sociology and Community Development and an associate degree in Education for Sustainable Development, is an experienced consultant with 15 years in UN-WFP program coordination, specializing in youth health and nutrition policy in Kenya.
Jedidah Mukolwe Sakwa
Board Member (Vice Chairperson)
Jedidah Mukolwe Sakwa is a Nairobi-based psychologist, psychometrician, and senior radiographer with 25+ years of experience. She lectures at the University of Nairobi, co-directs the BPS-accredited Center for Cognitive Interventions, and works as a Senior Radiographer at Kenyatta National Hospital, all while pursuing a PhD in Community Psychology.
Millicent Adah Odanga
Board Member (Secretary)
Millicent Adah Odanga is a distinguished and dedicated career civil servant and Executive Assistant who expertly enhances operational efficiency through strategic scheduling and coordination, leveraging her role to champion key social initiatives including Gender, Youth, and Disability Mainstreaming, wellness policies, and drug abuse awareness collaborations.
Marsden Abucheri
Vice Secretary
Marsden is an AI and software engineer with a strong passion for supporting mental health and substance abuse initiatives. Leveraging expertise in technology and data systems, they are dedicated to developing innovative digital solutions to enhance outreach, support access to care.
Rosaleen Eshikumo
Board Member (Treasurer)
Rosaleen is a Special Needs Education specialist and Curriculum Support Officer whose personal experience with substance abuse-related domestic violence has fueled her advocacy work, complemented by her role as Treasurer of the Kenya Nile and Discourse Forum.
Bryan Odongo
Board Member (Vice Treasurer)
Bryan Odongo, popularly known as DJ WADE Q, is a professional audio-visual DJ and currently a Radio DJ at Mulembe FM. He has extensive experience in both corporate and non-corporate events, specializing in indoor and outdoor functions as an event planner and social media content strategist.
Dr. Beatrice Mulama
Board Member
Dr Beatrice Mulama is a medical doctor with 28 years of experience in the field. She is a senior medical specialist currently working with Kenyatta National Hospital. She is a trained radiologist but also has a passion for the mental well-being of especially the youth.
Rosalyn Waseka Nandwa
Board Member
Rosalyn is a lawyer and former public servant with experience in promoting women’s economic empowerment. She is also a counselor specializing in Biblical Ministry and has worked extensively with women struggling with addiction. Having witnessed the impact of illicit brews on her family and community for decades, she has deep insight into the challenges posed by substance abuse.
Christine Songole (Sikinyi)
Board Member
Chief Designer and Director of Interior Design Services at the State Department for Public Works, specializing in planning, designing, constructing and maintaining interiors of government assets in the field of built environment. Skilled in project management, strategic planning, and universal accessibility.
Eunice A. Onyango Miruka
Board Member
She specialises in Counseling Psychology, with experience gained through Amani Counseling and Training Centre Institute. With 1,000 hours of counseling practice, she is skilled in addressing a range of psychological challenges, including trauma, grief, substance abuse, stress, anxiety, relationship and family issues.
Ivy Charo
Board Member
Ivy is an emerging mental health professional currently pursuing a degree in Psychology and Counselling. With a diploma in Counselling Psychology, she actively supports individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use issues, and emotional distress.
Volunteers & Friends of MWASA
Joseph Richard Eshutchi
Friend, MWASA
Currently majoring in Cybersecurity in Riara University. Also holding a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy. Experience in policy and international affairs locally and abroad.
Derrick Chitala
Friend, MWASA
Derrick Chitala is a digital entrepreneur and youth advocate who leverages his popular TikTok platform, @sidehustleskibao, to lead an NGO dedicated to helping young people avoid drugs, improve their mental health, and realize their potential.
Abi
MWASA Volunteer Trainer
I'm Abi, a UK-qualified social worker with 10 years of experience, primarily in mental health. My expertise includes working with learning disabilities, forensic settings, and substance misuse.
Abir Hashem
MWASA Volunteer Trainer
Dedicated professional with a BA in Economics with a focus on Women’s Studies and Social Sciences, bringing over 15 years of experience across diverse social work settings.
Support Our Cause
Interested in how our leadership team operates our initiatives, or want to get involved? Explore our programs or get in touch.