The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, in partnership with the Swapo Party Women's Council, hosted a two-day mental health workshop in Otjiwarongo aimed at raising awareness and strengthening community understanding of mental health issues.

The workshop brought together members of the Swapo Party Women's Council, civil society representatives, and community stakeholders to discuss the growing importance of mental health in Namibia. 

Participants were educated on the meaning of mental health, common mental health challenges affecting communities, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Discussions highlighted the rights of people living with mental health conditions, the responsibilities of communities, and the need for stronger support systems in workplaces and homes.

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Project Manager is Sylvia Mundjindi.

All of us, from time to time, are affected by conditions; it's just that sometimes you are not aware that you are having a condition. If you are in a relationship and your husband doesn't treat you well or your boyfriend doesn't treat you well, it's already affecting you. You have a child that is sick; if you have a colleague or your employer is already affecting you, it's just that we don't know that the issue is mental health."

Swapo Party Women's Council Deputy Secretary Maria Ntusi said women leaders and community representatives have a responsibility to advocate for accessible mental health services.

"As women leaders and community representatives, we carry a responsibility to advocate for accessible mental health services, stronger legal practitioners, and policies that promote dignity, equality and care for all citizens, especially women, men, children, youth and vulnerable members of society."

Meanwhile, Legal Assistance Centre's Gender Research and Advocacy Coordinator Yolanda Engelbrecht explained the Draft Mental Health Policy and its significance in strengthening mental health services and protection in Namibia.

The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and the SWAPO Party Women's Council to empower communities through education, advocacy, and social development initiatives.