Accelerating Regional Action to Strengthen Mental Health Care in Africa
Mental health experts, policymakers, and civil society representatives from over twenty African nations convened for the inaugural mental health intercountry meeting, advocating for enhanced, coordinated efforts to address significant gaps in mental health services across the continent. This historic gathering, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa with support from the Wellcome Trust, underscored the urgent need for comprehensive mental health systems and the barriers that hinder access to care.
Addressing Critical Gaps in Mental Health Services
Nearly 150 million individuals in Africa are affected by mental health, neurological, and substance use disorders, yet access to integrated care remains severely limited. Despite increasing recognition of mental health as a vital public health issue, services are often underfunded, fragmented, and difficult to access, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Currently, only seven African nations have established comprehensive mental health services at the primary healthcare level, while just 16 have allocated specific budget lines for mental health. Government expenditure averages less than $0.07 per capita, falling drastically short of the resources needed to meet growing demands and develop resilient health systems.
The intercountry meeting, which concluded recently for East and Southern African nations, served as a collaborative platform for participants to evaluate progress, identify challenges, and realign national strategies with regional and global objectives. This initiative is a crucial step toward strengthening mental health systems and advancing mental health care, aiming to accelerate progress toward the 2030 regional mental health targets. It also marks a significant milestone in preparations for the upcoming 7th Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit scheduled for early 2027.
Commitment to Integrated Care
Dr. Benido Impouma, Director of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control at WHO African Region, emphasized the pressing burden of mental health conditions in African countries. He stated the necessity for sustained investment in mental health, affirming WHO’s commitment to advancing the regional mental health strategy and ensuring that individuals with mental health conditions receive the care and respect they deserve.
Participants discussed strategies to enhance mental health information systems, integrate mental health into primary healthcare, expand community-based services, and foster multisectoral collaboration. South African Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi highlighted the importance of integrating mental health services into universal health coverage, asserting that neglecting mental health leads to deteriorating health outcomes, decreased treatment adherence, and increased disability.
Developing National Mental Health Roadmaps
Prior to the meeting, countries conducted rapid mental health landscape analyses, which informed the drafting of national mental health roadmaps. These roadmaps outline priority actions aimed at achieving the 2030 targets and will guide efforts to improve access to care, ensure the availability of essential medications, enhance suicide prevention strategies, and bolster preparedness for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) during emergencies.
The meeting also focused on combating discrimination and stigma associated with mental health issues. Participants engaged with individuals who have lived experience, sharing insights and fostering peer learning. This collaborative approach allowed countries to identify common challenges, exchange innovative practices, and explore new opportunities for strengthening national and regional coordination—essential steps toward building more resilient and equitable mental health systems.
Future Collaborations and Meetings
Paul Spencer, Head of Mental Health Policy at Wellcome Trust, articulated the ambition to facilitate earlier and equitable access to effective mental health care, emphasizing the importance of scientific guidance and local context. He reaffirmed the commitment to partnership with governments and institutions across Africa to achieve shared goals outlined in the regional framework.
The next intercountry meeting, focusing on West and Central African countries, is scheduled for July 15-18, 2026, in Lomé, Togo. This upcoming event aims to maintain momentum and further enhance regional collaboration in mental health care.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-05-29 16:28:00 • By the Editorial Desk
