By: H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma – Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, African Union Commission
10 October 2024, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Today, the African Union Commission stands with the world to commemorate World Mental Health Day under the theme, “It is time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.” A balanced and health-focused workplace is essential for driving innovation, boosting efficiency, and fostering economic growth. By placing employee well-being at the core of organisational strategies, we build resilience and contribute to the sustainability and prosperity of the broader economy.
As work environments become increasingly fast-paced and demanding, mental health awareness and support systems are more critical than ever. Chronic workplace stress, financial pressures, and strained personal relationships are leading contributors to mental health challenges worldwide, leading notably to anxiety and depression. Depression alone, the most prevalent mental disorder globally, affects around 100 million people in Africa, with 66 million of them being women, according to the World Health Organization. The economic cost of mental illness is significant, and according to the World Economic Forum, these burdens are expected to double by 2030.
In Africa, the situation is exacerbated by widespread poverty, high unemployment, violence, and trauma from conflict and displacement. These stressors heighten psychological distress, while deeply rooted cultural stigmas and a lack of awareness prevent many from seeking help. This is further compounded by inadequate investment in mental health infrastructure, with most AU Member States’ governments allocating less than 1% of their health budgets to this crucial area. The shortage of trained mental health professionals across the continent leaves countless individuals without the care and support they need, contributing to Africa’s growing disease burden.
The consequences of untreated mental health issues are dire, leading to long-term disabilities, fractured family systems, and tragically, increased mortality from suicide and its related complications. It is in this context that I echo the theme of World Suicide Prevention Day (2024-2026), “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” and its call to action, “Start the Conversation.” Open dialogue on mental wellness is vital for effective suicide prevention, and workplaces can play a pivotal role in creating structures that support the mental well-being of employees, especially given the gaps in national health systems.
The Africa Health Strategy (2016-2030) reaffirms our collective commitment to tackling health challenges, including mental illness. By strengthening our health systems, raising awareness of mental health, and investing in the training of health workers, we can provide the care and support that our people need. This Strategy builds on key frameworks like the 2001 Abuja Declaration, where AU Heads of State and Government pledged to allocate at least 15% of national budgets to health, and the 2019 AU Assembly Declaration on Domestic Health Financing while aligning with global health goals such as Agenda 2030. It is a clarion call for unity and action toward building a healthier, more resilient Africa, in line with AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.
As we mark World Mental Health Day, let us renew our dedication to creating a continent where every life is valued, where mental health is a priority, and where every African has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling, dignified, and prosperous life. I reassure that the AU Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming our continent and ensuring that every African can live a life of dignity and opportunity.
I thank you.