Strengthening the role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in mental health advocacy in The Gambia is a topic of great importance. The joint event, co-organized with the International Voluntary Mental Health Organization (IVMHO), brought together various stakeholders, including the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), the International Voluntary Mental Health Organization (IVMHO), and The Association of Non-Governmental Organization (TANGO), to discuss and explore ways to strengthen the role of NGOs and CSOs in mental health advocacy. The forum is part of efforts aimed at raising awareness on mental health challenges in the country, which continue to be a significant concern. The session began with an overview of the ongoing initiatives by the NMCP, led by Mam Jarra Marega, programme manager, who highlighted the development of The Gambia Mental Health Policy 2025-2035, the development of the Mental Health Investment Case, and the National School of Mental Health Programme. The investment cases, Marega explained, look at the economic burden of mental health in The Gambia, highlighting some of the financial burdens associated with services, out-of-pocket expenditures, and other costs. The NMCP also coordinated the Maiden National Dialogue on the mental health situation in The Gambia, established partnerships with key stakeholders, and is currently reviewing the Mental Health Bill and developing the Mental Health Strategic Plan 2025-2030. Despite these efforts, Marega noted that significant challenges remain, including persistent stigma that silences voices and prevents help-seeking, and the lack of awareness among some communities. Mental health, she emphasized, is a fundamental human right that affects every aspect of our lives and communities. She also highlighted the critical role of NGOs in raising awareness on mental health, citing their collaborative efforts in improving mental health issues and ensuring equity in services. The recent surge in suicide cases in the country, Marega noted, is a concerning trend that requires attention and action. The event also brought together representatives from the International Voluntary Mental Health Organization (IVMHO) and The Association of Non-Governmental Organization (TANGO), who spoke about their initiatives and efforts in promoting mental health awareness and advocacy. Samba Baldeh, National Coordinator, School of Mental Health under the IVMHO, expressed his organization’s commitment to working with the Ministry to raise awareness about mental health issues. Baldeh noted that the IVMHO was founded in 2016 in response to the growing need for advocacy on mental health issues in The Gambia. The organization conducts advocacy and campaigns on mental health in schools and communities, emphasizing that everyone is affected by mental health challenges. Amadou D Jallow, senior mental health officer at Kanifing General Hospital, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of collaboration and partnership in addressing mental health issues. He emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to mental health care, which includes not only medical treatment but also social and economic support. The event highlights the importance of collaboration and partnership among stakeholders in promoting mental health awareness and advocacy. Some key points from the event include:

• Strengthening the role of NGOs and CSOs in mental health advocacy is crucial in promoting mental health awareness and advocacy.
• Mental health is a fundamental human right that affects every aspect of our lives and communities.
• Collaboration and partnership among stakeholders are essential in addressing mental health issues.
• NGOs and CSOs play a critical role in raising awareness on mental health and promoting advocacy for policy change.
• The recent surge in suicide cases in the country highlights the need for urgent attention and action.

The event also brought together a number of other stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the National Malaria Control Programme, and other NGOs and CSOs. These stakeholders recognized the importance of working together to address mental health issues and promote mental health awareness. The event was a significant milestone in the journey toward achieving mental health equity in The Gambia. The Gambia’s mental health policy, which was developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including NGOs and CSOs, provides a framework for promoting mental health awareness and advocacy. The policy emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership among stakeholders in addressing mental health issues. The policy also highlights the need for increased investment in mental health services, as well as the importance of addressing the root causes of mental health issues. This event was a significant step forward in the journey toward achieving mental health equity in The Gambia. The Gambia’s mental health policy provides a framework for promoting mental health awareness and advocacy.