Ministry launches mental health strategic plan for 2020-2025

Addis Ababa, July 13, 2021 (FBC) – The Ministry of Health launched the National Mental Health Strategic Plan for 2020-2025.

Regarding the launch of the strategic plan, the Minister of Health, Dr. Lia Tadesse said Mental, neurological, and substance use problems are major public health problems and contributors to a disability, compromised quality of life, and productivity.

“The first NMHS has enabled us to improve the number and mix of health professionals and access to mental health services but we have a long way to go” she said.

The second strategy has been designed to build on the strengths and address the gaps aligned with WHO Global Comprehensive Mental health Action Plan and the SDGs, Dr. Lia explained.

The Minister further called upon all stakeholders to join hands with the Ministry of Health to support the effective rollout of this strategy in a multisectoral and sustainable way.