STANLEY KWABLA ARKU

Purple Month is Ghana’s annual mental health awareness campaign, observed every May to promote education, reduce stigma, and encourage national dialogue around mental health issues. Spearheaded by the Mental Health Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the month-long observance aims to highlight the importance of mental wellness as a critical part of public health. Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving mental health care across the country under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama. According to her, there are ongoing efforts to expand access to mental health services, especially at the community level. Political Advisor to the Vice President, Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo spoke on behalf her behalf. BYTE - AMPOFO Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, also addressed the gathering and highlighted key government strategies to transform mental healthcare delivery. These according to him include the integration of mental health services into primary healthcare, the establishment of new mental health facilities in the northern regions, and the resourcing of existing institutions such as the Accra Psychiatric Hospital and Pantang Hospital. BYTE - AKANDOH Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Authority, Professor Pinaman Appau, made a strong appeal for public participation in mental health education. She called on communities, civil society organisations, and the media to help demystify mental health and promote understanding. BYTE - PROF. APPAU As part of activities marking Purple Month, a series of public education campaigns, health screenings, media engagements, and community outreach programs have been lined up across the country throughout the month of May. Purple Month continues to serve as a crucial platform for mental health advocacy, policy engagement, and national reflection on the importance of mental wellness in Ghana’s development agenda. Stanley Kwabla Arku, for Pan African Television.