Wellness Hour R2 Billion Hospital Heist: Africa’s Mental Health Emergency: Urgent Action Needed

Now that World Mental Health Day just passed on 10 October, the World Health Organisation is calling on African governments to take mental health seriously. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti highlighted that Africa faces a growing burden of chronic and non-infectious conditions, including mental disorders that can contribute to suicide. Mental health problems now affect 116 million people in the African region, more than double the number in 1990. Despite this, funding remains critically low, with governments spending less than 50 US cents per person, and most services concentrated in urban areas. Today, we
explore how this crisis affects society, the economy, and what steps can be taken to protect vulnerable communities.