Mary Waihiga

Mary Waihiga is a Kenyan mental health advocate and the Executive Director of the Center for Suicide Research and Intervention (CSRI), a leading institution focused on suicide prevention, crisis support, and mental health research in Kenya. With a strong background in community-based mental health work, Mary leads CSRI’s mission to reduce suicide rates through early intervention, capacity building, and evidence-driven programs. Under her leadership, CSRI has developed grassroots networks of trained counselors and community champions, expanded mental health first aid training across counties, and improved the quality of data informing policy and response.

Beyond managing operations and programs, Mary plays a critical role in shaping the national mental health agenda. She works closely with government institutions, academic partners, and civil society organizations to push for systemic reforms, such as increased funding for mental health, integration of suicide prevention into public health systems, and stronger protections for vulnerable groups.

She is a sought-after speaker and policy advisor, known for framing suicide not as a moral failure but as a public health issue requiring empathy, urgency, and coordinated action. Through her work, Mary continues to drive a nationwide movement toward mental health inclusion, resilience, and dignity for all.