ECSA-HC joins Global Efforts in Suicide Awareness Month: Creating Hope Through Action

The East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) joins the world in commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day, reaffirming its commitment to addressing mental health as a regional public health priority.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 720,000 people die by suicide each year, with 73% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Suicide remains the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15–29 globally. In the ECSA-HC region, stigma, limited access to services, and the absence of inclusive support systems continue to place many at risk. These realities highlight the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies and stronger mental health support.

“At ECSA-HC, we reaffirm our commitment through Ministerial Resolutions to addressing mental health, including suicide, as a critical public health priority,” emphasized Dr. Ntuli A. Kapologwe, Director General of ECSA-HC.

“We urge our Member States to implement robust mental health policies, allocate adequate resources, and integrate mental health into national health strategies. Suicide is preventable. Through coordinated policy action and regional collaboration, we can foster hope, resilience, and inclusion. By creating hope through action, we change the narrative and ensure that no one in our region is left behind.”

Aligned with the global theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” and ECSA-HC’s regional sub-theme “Creating Hope Through Action”, the Community calls on its Member States, partners, and communities to:

• Prioritize mental health in policies, strategies, and investments to make it a sustained regional priority.

• Strengthen data systems on suicide and self-harm to inform evidence-based prevention and youth-centred interventions.

• Promote stigma-free conversations on suicide prevention and mental health to break the silence and discrimination.

• Enhance health systems to ensure equitable access to mental health services, especially during crises and emergencies.

• Empower communities and young people with knowledge, skills, and networks that build resilience and collective well-being.

As part of this year’s commemoration, ECSA-HC will engage in digital awareness campaigns, regional dialogues, and partner engagement throughout the month. A special regional webinar will be hosted on 9 October 2025 in observance of World Mental Health Day, focusing on improving access to services, addressing mental health in emergencies, promoting youth inclusion, and reducing suicide risk across Member States.

Together, we can create hope through action and build a future where mental health is a priority for all.