Members of parliament in the National Council have called on the government to make mental health a national health priority, supported by adequate budgetary resources.

The MPs also stressed the importance of public awareness about mental illness and addressing the stigma, as some communities still attribute mental illness to witchcraft.

Members of parliament continued to make contributions to the Mental Health Bill.

National Council MP Erickson Ndawanifa stated, "While natural or cultural and spiritual beliefs are important, we know it's very important. Our culture is also important. It's very important. However, mental health conditions must also be understood from a medical and scientific perspective. And this is the call that we have to send to our community."

"Mental illness is not a moral failure. It is not a curse. It is a health condition that requires compassion, treatment, and respect. A nation that wishes to be just must never allow persons with mental health conditions to be pushed aside and thought to not belong, as though they do not belong. This bill affirms that they do belong in our health system, in our communities, and in our national conscience, "highlghted MP Raymond Jossop."

MP Victor Maswahu adds, "The gap between principle and practice remains painful. In many regions, there are no dedicated mental health units and no rehabilitation centres. In some hospitals, there is only available space for a person in an acute mental health crisis."

Another MP, Matheus Nanghama, reiterated, "I know for sure that we have a shortage of stuff. Those people who are dealing with mental health – therefore, we also need to increase this number of the stuff and the budget that we need. We also need to think about the budget so that you can budget for this one."

"During the most recent reporting period, the mental health care centres recorded more than 24,000 outpatient consultations and over 2,000 inpatient admissions, both exceeding plans, services, and targets. These figures reflect not only increasing prevalence and awareness of mental illness but also growing public confidence in seeking special mental health care," contributed MP John Moonde.