By Josephine Sesay

On Friday 14 March, 2025 a landmark move to strengthen mental health advocacy and services, the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), through the Ministry of Health (MoH), has officially launched the country’s first Mental Health Champions Network. The event, held at the Bank Complex in Freetown, marks a significant step toward reducing stigma and improving access to mental health care nationwide.

The Mental Health Champions Network comprises 20 influential individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in youth development, public service, and community engagement. These champions will act as advocates for mental health reform, policy advancement, and awareness-raising efforts, ensuring that mental health remains a national priority.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Health Dr Austin Demby emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling mental health challenges, stating, “For too long, mental health has been overlooked. With this initiative, we are taking a bold step to change the narrative, ensuring that no one suffers in silence.”

The network is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that support mental health care, integrating mental health services into primary healthcare, and fostering community-based interventions. By engaging prominent leaders, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between policymakers, health professionals, and the public, fostering a more inclusive and supportive mental health system.

This initiative aligns with global mental health strategies, ensuring that Sierra Leone keeps pace with international standards for mental health advocacy and care. The government’s proactive approach signals a new era in public health, where mental well-being is given equal importance alongside physical health.

With the establishment of the Mental Health Champions Network, Sierra Leone takes a significant step forward in addressing mental health concerns, offering hope for a future where mental health support is accessible, inclusive, and stigma-free.