Namibia Faces Mental Health Crisis

Namibia is experiencing a mental health crisis, evidenced by recent incidents at State House and a fatal police shooting. In the 2024/25 period, roughly 91,500 patients sought outpatient mental health care while about 11,400 required hospital admission. The country’s Mental Health Act of 1973 is slated for repeal with a new bill expected next month, aiming to modernize care and emphasize community-based treatment.

However, administrative issues within the Ministry of Health—including potential procurement irregularities—hinder progress. Nurses report feeling unsafe at work, and patients often lack humane treatment, medication, or adequate support after discharge.

Concerns extend to security within psychiatric wards and a need for improved mental health training for police. The nation must address these systemic problems to protect vulnerable citizens and the broader public. The work to improve Namibia’s mental health system requires sustained attention and reform.