Mental Health in Africa: Innovation and Investment

Held in partnership with the Royal African Society, Centre for Global Mental Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the Wellcome Trust, this landmark conference aims to secure real commitments on mental health awareness, policy, investment and implementation in order to bridge the gap in mental health provision in Africa.

Mental health has historically been neglected on health and development policy agendas, both by donors and African governments. But over the last decade, interest and opinions have shifted globally and in Africa. Most African countries have now adopted mental health policies and innovations are emerging from the continent, which have much to offer the rest of the world. However, there is still a major investment gap that must be addressed.

Investing in mental health is crucial for attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. Evidence shows that improved mental health provision can have significant benefits for social and economic development. For every dollar invested in care for depression and anxiety, there is a $5.70 return on economic and health benefits.

This important conference will bring together researchers, practitioners, innovators, policy-makers, government officials, private sector representatives and wider members of the public to highlight current innovations shaping mental healthcare in Africa today and make the case for increased investment in the field.

The conference will measure progress made to date against the WHO's Mental Health Action Plan and deliver a set of key priorities for Africa, with a view to strengthening the continental and international response to the gaps identified.

The priorities will then be discussed at a high-level roundtable the next morning, which will seek specific commitments from donors, policy-makers, government and regional bodies working on mental health in Africa.

The ticket price includes entry to the Conference, breakfast on arrival and refreshments mid-morning, as well as a full buffet lunch and drinks reception.

Book your tickets here!