Namibia recorded a suicide rate of 18 deaths per 100 000 people during the 2024/25 reporting period, significantly exceeding the estimated African regional average of 11, prompting calls for urgent action to strengthen mental health services and tackle stigma.

Vice President Lucia Witbooi calling for stronger suicide prevention measures, early intervention and improved access to affordable mental health care.

“This comparison is a serious call to action,” Witbooi said, stressing that Namibia must translate the alarming figures into sustained action and ensure that people with lived experience of mental health conditions help shape the country’s response.

According to the vice president, Namibia recorded more than 100 000 mental health service contacts during the 2024/25 reporting period, comprising approximately 91 500 outpatient consultations and 11 400 cases requiring inpatient admission.

However, she cautioned that these figures only reflect people who managed to access services, leaving unanswered questions about the number of Namibians who need treatment but cannot obtain it. Witbooi said mental health challenges affect not only individuals but also families, communities and the country’s social and economic development.

She warned that stigma, fear of discrimination and being misunderstood continue to prevent people from seeking assistance. She urged communities, workplaces, schools and religious organisations to create supportive environments where people can discuss mental health challenges without shame or fear of exclusion.

The commemoration included a “Walk in My Shoes” session, as well as art, craft and dance performances by residents of the mental health centre. Witbooi praised participants for sharing their experiences, saying their stories could help improve the mental health system and encourage others to seek support. Photo: Vice President of Namibia

By Rudi Bowe