United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called for more investments in mental health in Somalia.
The organization made this call on October 11 during the World Mental Health Day.
Adam Abdelmoula, the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, was the special guest during celebrations to mark this year’s Mental Health Day.
In his address, Abdelmoula urged Somalia’s humanitarian and development partners to increase their assistance in this area.
“Without their participation, mental health services in Somalia would continue to struggle,” Abdelmoula warned.
He said that it was sad for Somalia, a country of 15 million people, to be served by not more than 3 psychiatrists and 25 nurses trained to provide mental health services.
Abdelmoula also stated that 30% of people in Somalis are affected by mental health challenges.
Consequently, Abdelmoula mentioned that it is sad to note that only a few facilities offer mental health services to millions of people.