Sierra Leone Takes dynamic Step on the Revoew of Mental Health and PsychosocialSupport Strategy.

In a collaborative push to fortify its approach to mental wellness, Sierra Leone recently convened a pivotal review of its national Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) strategy. The virtual meeting, held on November 20th and led by the Ministry of Social Welfare, brought together a diverse coalition of government bodies, civil society organizations, and international partners to evaluate the existing 2019-2025 MHPSS in Emergencies Strategy.

The consensus was clear: while the strategy provides a vital foundation, updating it is essential to address emerging challenges and secure the nation's long-term wellbeing.

The discussion opened with a compelling economic argument from Mr. Joshua Abioseh Duncan of the Mental Health Coalition. He praised the inclusive nature of the review and directly linked the nation's mental health to its economic vitality. Presenting sobering data, he noted that poor psychosocial health can reduce an individual's productive work hours to fewer than three per day. He urged the assembly to ensure the strategy moves from concept to concrete action, stating that collective effort is needed to prevent mental health issues from stalling national development.

A key theme of the meeting was the need to include often-overlooked groups. Madam Cecilia Coker of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) identified a significant gap in the current framework: the specific needs of migrants. She described the profound trauma experienced by many returning citizens, pointing to widespread post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among youth who have survived dangerous journeys. Madam Coker strongly advocated for the strategy to explicitly incorporate migration, ensuring this vulnerable population receives the support necessary for successful reintegration.

Echoing this call for a more inclusive approach, the Honorable Deputy Minister, Mohamed Haji Kella, affirmed that mental health is a daily reality, not an abstract concept. He shared powerful firsthand accounts from returning migrants to illustrate the urgent need for support. Deputy Minister Kella championed a strategic evolution, envisioning the current emergency-focused document as the blueprint for a comprehensive National Strategy for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support. He emphasized that addressing this multi-faceted issue requires a dedicated, "whole-of-society" commitment.

The review culminated in a set of forward-looking recommendations, which have gained broad stakeholder support.

The revised strategy will formally recognize migration as a key emergency scenario and outline specific MHPSS services for returnees, while also building upon the current framework to create a standalone, comprehensive national policy. Furthermore, it will clarify the roles and responsibilities across all 21 relevant government ministries to ensure a unified national response, and position MHPSS as a critical investment in human capital by explicitly tying improved mental health to national productivity and development goals.

This strategic review marks a significant commitment to safeguarding the mental and psychosocial wellbeing of all Sierra Leoneans. The continued partnership between the Ministry of Social Welfare, UNICEF, and all involved stakeholders will be crucial in finalizing a resilient and effective framework for the years to come.

Correspondent: Abu Bakarr Sama

Email: abubakarrsama1992@gmail.com

Tel: +232 77 267 549 / +232 76 626 242