The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on African governments to urgently strengthen mental health systems and integrate psychosocial support into emergency response efforts across the continent.
This call was made by the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, in a statement issued on Friday to commemorate the 2025 World Mental Health Day themed “Access to Service: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”
Dr. Janabi expressed concern that mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) remain poorly integrated into Africa’s emergency preparedness and response systems, despite the continent being the most affected by public health crises.
“Emergencies—whether outbreaks, conflicts, or natural disasters—can devastate lives and communities. While most people experience psychological stress, one in five will face a mental health condition requiring professional care,” Janabi stated.
According to the WHO, Africa records over 100 major emergencies annually—from Ebola and cholera outbreaks to floods and armed conflicts—each worsening the continent’s mental health burden and stretching already fragile health systems.
Janabi also highlighted progress made at the global level, noting that in May 2024, the World Health Assembly approved a landmark resolution urging the integration of MHPSS into all phases of crisis management—preparedness, response, and recovery.
He further revealed that WHO’s Regional Framework for Mental Health offers guidance for member states to embed MHPSS within disaster risk reduction and health system strengthening strategies.
Currently, 11 African countries have incorporated MHPSS into their national disaster preparedness plans, while others are integrating services into primary healthcare. WHO aims for at least 80% of African countries to have strong MHPSS systems in place by 2030.
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Despite these advancements, Dr. Janabi lamented the low financial commitment to mental health in the region.
“Only 10 countries have dedicated mental health budgets, with regional spending below $0.50 per capita,” he noted, urging governments to increase funding and political commitment.
He outlined several key recommendations to accelerate progress, including the establishment of multisectoral MHPSS coordination mechanisms, strengthening of community support systems, and training of frontline responders in psychological first aid.
“Mental health care is not a luxury—it is a lifeline, especially in times of crisis. We must invest in stronger systems and coordinated action to ensure mental health support is available when most needed,” Janabi emphasized.