Mental Health Authority needs support – Ministry

The Deputy Minister for Health, Kingsley Aboagye Gyedu has called for support for the Mental Health Authority to enable it carry out its operations efficiently.

He made this call when the West Africa Health Organisation (WAHO), donated 10 Suzuki  motorbikes and accessories valued at GH¢160,000 to the Mental Health Authority to mark the end of a five-day forum on Public Private Partnership (PPP) in the health sector.

The forum was organized by the West African Health Organization, in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development.

Aboagye Gyedu noted that the mental health sector is an area that requires attention of all Ghanaians because the risk posed by mentally challenged patients affects all irrespective of one’s status in the society.

He appealed to Civil Society Organizations, donors, the private sector and individuals to come to the aid of the Mental Health Authority saying, “the mental health system is an area where patients cannot be charged for treatment, they need our support.”

He proposed that a foundation be set to solicit funds from the general public to support the activities of the Authority.

“Mental health is one of the crucial areas which is often neglected. Normally this is an area where countries would not consider as a priority but it is a very important area for us,” Dr Kofi Busia, representing WAHO noted.

He expressed the hope that the donation of motorbikes will go a long way to support the activities of the Authority.

By Pamela Ofori-Boateng