Windhoek:Namibia recorded more than 100,000 mental health service contacts in 2024-2025, with 91,500 outpatient consultations and 11,400 cases requiring inpatient admission.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Vice President Lucia Witbooi highlighted these figures during the commemoration of World Mental Health Day at Windhoek Central Hospital's mental health centre. She emphasized the need for greater attention to mental health care, noting that while the figures reflect the services provided, they do not account for those who still need care but cannot access it.

During the same period, the Namibian Police Force reported suicide cases at a rate of 18 per 100,000 population, which is above the estimated African regional average of 11 per 100,000. Witbooi stressed the importance of turning these statistics into urgent and sustained action, advocating for strengthened prevention, early support, and more accessible services.

The commemoration coincides with the passing of the Mental Health Act of 2026 by the Namibian Parliament. This legislation aims to protect the rights and dignity of mental health care recipients and supports the provision of decentralized, community-based mental health services as outlined in NDP6. However, Witbooi emphasized that effective implementation is crucial to complement the legislation.

Vice President Witbooi reaffirmed the government's commitment, through the Ministry of Health and Social Services, to ensure all Namibians have access to affordable mental health services without financial hardship.

Windhoek Central Hospital's mental health centre, which is the largest specialized unit in the country, offers 206 beds for general and forensic psychiatric patients. Regional mental health units are also available at the Oshakati and Rundu intermediate hospitals, and at the Swakopmund and Katima Mulilo district hospitals. Despite having resident psychiatrists and basic services, these regional units face challenges due to shortages of clinical psychologists and occupational therapists, necessitating the referral of complex cases to Windhoek.