Mental health initiative partly funded by the US Embassy
Our Staff
MASERU, Lesotho – Mental Health for Public Health Lesotho last week partnered with the Embassy of the United States in Maseru for the landmark launch of an initiative to address mental health challenges in Lesotho.
Partly funded by the US Department of State’s Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund, the initiative aims to uplift mental health awareness and support across the country.
The launch event, held at the American Corner in Maseru last Friday, brought together key stakeholders, including project leaders, community representatives, and government officials, to celebrate the beginning of this important endeavor.
‘Makamohelo Malimabe, an alumna of a US Government-funded exchange programme and founder of the Mental Health for Public Health initiative, expressed her gratitude for the support received from the US Embassy and outlined the objectives of the project.
“Today marks the beginning of a journey to empower communities and transform mental health care in Lesotho,” said ‘Malimabe.
“With the support of the US Embassy and our partners, we are committed to addressing the pressing issue of mental illness and stigma in our society.”
According to a statement from the US Embassy, the project aimed to empower community leaders, traditional and spiritual healers, religious figures, and clinicians with the tools and knowledge needed to identify mental health concerns and combat stigma. Over the next six months, the project team would conduct comprehensive training sessions in Lesotho’s 10 districts, reaching a diverse range of participants from different sectors of society.
Embassy Public Affairs Officer, Charles Blake, emphasised the importance of partnerships in addressing mental health challenges.
“The US Embassy is proud to partner with Mental Health for Public Health Lesotho in this important initiative,” said Blake.
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“Together, we can make a profound impact on the well-being of Basotho individuals and communities.”
The launch featured remarks from Nthati Phakoe, founder of the organisation, Tunasafiri, who underscored the importance of seeking help for mental health issues.
“It is okay to not be okay,” said Phakoe.
“We encourage people to seek help when they need it.”
The Embassy of the United States in Maseru extended its congratulations to Mental Health for Public Health Lesotho on the successful launch of the initiative.
“By working together, we can build a more compassionate and informed approach to mental health care in Lesotho,” read a statement from the Embassy.
