# What licences does a mental health or addiction rehabilitation facility need in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-licences-does-a-mental-health-or-addiction-rehabilitation-facility-need-in-kenya
For: Executives | Mental health practice | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** A mental health or rehabilitation institution must be registered and licensed by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) under its 2022 Mental Health Treatment and Rehabilitation Institutions Rules. Registration involves a county inspection, document checks and a KMPDC inspection, followed by an annual operating licence. The amended Mental Health Act also requires private mental health facilities to be approved and recorded by the county mental health council, which inspects them. Confirm the exact sequence with KMPDC and your county health department before signing a lease.

Sources: Kenya Law: https://kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/ln/2022/173/eng@2022-12-31 - Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council: https://kmpdc.go.ke/health-facilities/ - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11

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