Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to prioritising mental healthcare in Ghana, making it more accessible and inclusive.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Purple Month on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, an initiative by the Mental Health Authority (MHA) to advocate for mental wellness, he outlined a series of measures the John Dramani Mahama-led government will implement to improve access to mental healthcare.

“We will review and integrate mental health services into primary healthcare so that care is brought closer to our communities and becomes a routine part of health-seeking behavior. We will commence the establishment of modern mental health hospitals in the northern part of the country and refurbish existing facilities to ensure equity in access to care," he said.

Akandoh added that the Accra and Pantang Psychiatric Hospitals would be adequately resourced to enable them to deliver more effective and responsive services.

"We will adequately resource the Accra and Pantang Psychiatric Hospitals to enable them to deliver effective, responsive, and comprehensive mental health services. We will also review the Mental Health Authority Act to support the expansion of training, recruitment, and retention of community mental health officers, who are vital to extending care to underserved areas. Furthermore, we will establish mental health hotlines to allow Ghanaians access to professional support and e-counseling services at the district level," he stated.

The Health Minister also emphasised the need for a national cultural shift toward greater openness about mental health.

"Beyond infrastructure and policy, we also recognise the need for a national culture shift, one that encourages openness, empathy, and understanding.

"That is why I call on all of us, traditional and faith leaders, civil society organisations, the media, private sector partners, and every citizen, to be champions for mental health in our communities. Let us stand together to dismantle stigma, support those in need, and make mental well-being a true national priority," he added.

The 2025 Purple Month, themed “Mental Well-being: My Voice Matters”, seeks to shed light on the impact of mental illness and empower individuals with knowledge about available resources.

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