Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised alarm over Africa’s poor integration of mental health services into disaster preparedness and response, warning that millions are left without psychological support during crises.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Janabi, on Thursday said mental health must be prioritised as a critical part of emergency management. “Mental health is not a luxury; it is a lifeline, especially during disasters,” he stressed.
According to WHO data, the African region faces more than 100 public health emergencies every year — from cholera and Ebola to floods and conflicts — yet only 11 African countries have included mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) in their national disaster preparedness plans, while regional spending on mental health remains below US$0.50 per capita.
“Neglecting psychosocial support fuels needless suffering,” Janabi warned. “One in five people affected by emergencies develops a mental health condition that requires professional care.”
The WHO is urging African governments to integrate mental health into emergency frameworks by adopting the mhGAP Humanitarian Intervention Guide, training first responders in psychological first aid, and strengthening community resilience.
Janabi emphasised that addressing mental health in crises protects human dignity and accelerates recovery. “By embedding MHPSS in all stages of crisis response, we can bring healing and hope to millions,” he said.
The organisation targets that by 2030, at least 80 per cent of African countries will have fully functional MHPSS systems aligned with global standards for inclusive and resilient health care.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Chukwu Obinna 
Koko Maxwella 
Otamere Gladness