Africa-Press – Namibia. HEALTH and social services minister Kalumbi Shangula has called for increased investments in the provision and promotion of mental health programmes and services.
Shangula said the mental health crisis has the potential to erode progress made on health, human rights and social protection.
He was speaking yesterday at the opening session of the African Union’s second joint high-level continental seminar on the Right to Health and Social Protection in Africa. The seminar is currently underway in Windhoek until tomorrow.
Shangula said it is critical that specific attention be paid to the “neglected crises of mental health, as well as domestic and gender-based violence”.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of many healthcare systems in Africa and elsewhere. It laid bare the gaps in health promotion, prevention and rehabilitation for mental health, as well as control of substance abuse,” Shangula said.
The seminar raises awareness and reminds parties of the African Charter of their obligations towards the provision of adequate and affordable healthcare and social protection services.
Shangula called on African countries to enact progressive laws, develop policies and action plans for reproductive health, economic empowerment, political emancipation of women, and end all forms of violence against women and girls.
He said the African continent has made significant progress when it comes to health and social protection, particularly since 54 of the 55 member states have signed and ratified the Maputo Protocol.
“However, ratification signals intent. We need to ensure that action is taken at national, regional and continental levels to turn this noble intent into unified resolve and tangible results and impacts for our people,” Shangula said.
Shangula added that the drafting of the National Policy for Older Persons has commenced, which will complement the old-age pension grant by strengthening healthcare services and social protection for older people.
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