Windhoek:The Ministry of Health and Social Services has announced plans to increase its mental health budget by at least 4% annually over the next 10 years, as stated by Minister Esperance Luvindao during the commemoration of World Mental Health Day at Windhoek Central Hospital.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Minister Luvindao signed a ministerial declaration and public commitment on mental health, in the presence of Vice President Lucia Witbooi. The budget increases will be calculated against the approved mental health allocation for the preceding financial year, starting from the 2027/28 to the 2036/37 financial years.

The ministry aims to prioritize important aspects of mental health care, acknowledging that immediate solutions are not feasible but promising steady progress. Among the six national commitments outlined, the ministry will allocate at least 10% of revenue from private mental health patients in State facilities to mental health services, medicines, workforce development, and community-based care.

Additionally, all newly constructed public or private hospitals at the district level or higher must include a mental health unit in their designs. The ministry is also committed to implementing recurring anti-stigma and patient rights-based education, involving individuals with lived experiences, for health workers, public institutions, and communities.

Plans include establishing at least five mental health units nationwide by 2037, prioritizing underserved regions, and increasing the number of doctors undergoing psychiatric specialization to three annually. This initiative aims to create an adequately staffed workforce capable of meeting national needs, in line with the anticipated Mental Health Act of 2026. If successful, approximately 21 new psychiatrists are expected by 2037.

Minister Luvindao also commended the National Assembly and National Council for passing the Mental Health Bill, currently submitted for necessary signatures and gazetting.