Namibia: MPs Warn Mental Health Bill Needs Backing
[Namibian] National Council parliamentarians have welcomed Namibia's new mental health bill but warn that the legislation could fail if the government does not provide the infrastructure, staff and funding needed to implement it.
Namibia's National Council MPs have welcomed the country's new mental health bill but cautioned that it may fail if the government fails to provide necessary infrastructure, staff, and funding. The bill, which was adopted by the National Assembly on June 9, seeks to replace the outdated 1973 Mental Health Act with a rights-based framework for mental healthcare.
The legislation promotes community-based care, early intervention, patient rights, suicide prevention, and stronger safeguards against abuse and discrimination. However, parliamentarian Eddie Nanub warned that the bill could be ineffective due to inadequate infrastructure and underfunding. He highlighted the shortage of mental health professionals, with the country having fewer than 10 psychiatrists, and called for a cost implementation roadmap, ring-fenced mental health budget, and stronger independent oversight.
Zedekia Katjiuanjo supported the bill but advocated for services to reach remote regions and called for mental health units at regional hospitals, trained workers at district health centers, and a national awareness campaign. Andreas Amundjindi expressed disappointment with only two mental health facilities in the country, stating that overcrowding compromises patients' dignity and rights.
He urged young people to avoid drugs and other toxic substances that contribute to mental health issues.
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