# How are minors admitted to a mental health facility in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-are-minors-admitted-to-a-mental-health-facility-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Mental health practice | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** For voluntary admission of a child, the Mental Health Act (section 10) requires the guardian to submit a written application in the prescribed form, and the person in charge must review the child's condition within 72 hours. Treatment of minors needs the guardian's written consent (section 3B), and guardians must be told of their right to take part in treatment planning. For involuntary or emergency admission, the guardian is the applicant or consenting party. The child's views should still be heard, in line with the Children Act.

Sources: Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11 - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/2022/29

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