Mental health has emerged as one of Namibia's most pressing public health challenges, with rising cases of depression, anxiety, and suicide, especially among young people.

According to the World Health Organisation, Namibia currently ranks 11th globally and 4th in Africa for suicide rates.

An increase in cancer cases has placed tremendous pressure on the Oncology Ward at the Windhoek Central Hospital.

The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) is hard at work to finalise drafting the Mental Health Bill to be tabled in Parliament.

Minister Dr. Kalumbi Shangula said this at the inauguration of the Mental Health Board for the Windhoek Central Hospital on Friday.