Rachel Shebesh

Politician · Advocate

Kenya

Bipolar disorderSelf-disclosed [1]

Rachel Shebesh is a Kenyan politician who represented Nairobi as its Woman Representative from 2013 to 2017 and later served as Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service and Gender. She has also become a public advocate for mental-health awareness. [3][4][1]

Last updated September 15, 2026

Career and work

Before becoming Nairobi Woman Representative, Shebesh served as a nominated member of Kenya's National Assembly from 2008 to 2013. She has also represented Kenya in the Pan-African Parliament. [4]

She later served as Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service and Gender. [3]

What has been publicly discussed

“But from the day I took control of my mental health, bipolar does not control me, it's just part of who I am.”
— Rachel Shebesh [2]

The following sources contain information that supports the claims made in this profile.

Parents Africa“Rachel Shebesh: Becoming a mental health advocate”
A detailed first-person interview covering Shebesh's bipolar disorder, medication, psychotherapy, long-term stability, self-care and mental-health advocacy.
The Star“Bipolar led me to depression — Shebesh”
Reports Shebesh's first-person account of severe depression, medication, effects on her family and political work, and her changing relationship with bipolar disorder.
The Standard“Rachel Shebesh: My husband spotted bipolar disorder in me”
Covers the recognition and diagnosis of her bipolar disorder and identifies her government role as Chief Administrative Secretary.
SourceRachel Wambui Shebesh — Mzalendo
Parliamentary record documenting her service as a nominated MP, Nairobi Woman Representative and member of the Pan-African Parliament.
Nairobi Wire“Rachel Shebesh On Battling Bipolar Disorder, 'I Was Almost Suicidal'”
Reports her account of a prolonged depression in which she struggled to move or communicate and became almost suicidal.

Recommended books and other resources about Rachel Shebesh and lived experience.

Nairobi Wire“Rachel Shebesh Talks Kidero Slap, Battling Depression and Bipolar”
A longer interview covering the effect of depression on Shebesh's political life, relationships, triggers and support system.

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