Revisiting the need to strengthen health systems in Africa for better mental health care delivery

Background: A substantial amount of the world's burden of disease today comes from mental, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS). In Africa, a high percentage of people are affected by MNS and this is attributed to several factors such as poor leadership and governance for health, inadequate access to and utilisation of health services, especially for mental health, myths associated with mental health, poor knowledge of mental health disorders, stigma towards mentally ill persons, and weak health systems. The weak health system across Africa greatly affects mental health care delivery. This article discusses the state of mental health in Africa. It argues that with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic which hit in 2020 the focus of many health systems in Africa has been on addressing the pandemic with less emphasis on mental health care delivery. Method: The article, using a WHO health systems framework, discusses useful ways to strengthen mental health systems in Africa for improved mental health care delivery. Results: The various aspects of the WHO health systems framework are used to explain how to strengthen mental health care delivery in Africa. Conclusion: Strengthening health systems in Africa for improved mental health care delivery using the WHO framework is possible and has benefits for Africa.&nbsp