In an effort to address the growing mental health concerns among young people in Africa, the African Union Youth Envoy, Ms. Chido Mpemba, unveiled the #ICanSurvive Mental Health Advocacy Toolkit at the margins of the AU summit. Developed through extensive consultations with over 400,000 young Africans, the toolkit aims to empower youth, influence policy, and raise awareness about emerging mental health issues across the continent.

"The launch of the #ICanSurvive Mental Health Toolkit is a significant stride towards confronting the mental health challenges that young Africans face. It is essential for empowering the youth to advocate for their mental health and well-being, which is crucial for building resilient communities and achieving sustainable development across the continent," remarked Ms Chido Mpemba, the African Union Youth Envoy.

The initiative is in line with the Africa Youth Charter and Agenda 2063, recognizing the critical role of young people in addressing mental health challenges on the continent. It echoes Article 16 of the African Union Youth Charter, emphasizing the right of young Africans to mental well-being, advocating for the destigmatization of mental illness, and supporting the creation of environments that encourage young people to seek help when needed.

By launching the Mental Health Toolkit, Ms Mpemba, aims to not only honor the commitments outlined in foundational documents but also to equip young Africans with the necessary tools and resources to advocate for their mental health rights, fostering resilient communities for future generations. This toolkit stands as a beacon of collective dedication to supporting Africa’s youth in navigating towards a brighter and mentally resilient future, with the African Union playing a pivotal role in this mission.

The toolkit has been crafted with contributions from young people themselves, guided by the expertise of a diverse group of experts, researchers, policymakers, business leaders, civil society, and the diaspora community. Notable collaborators include the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red

Crescent Societies, United for Global Mental Health, Global Partnerships for Education, COP28 UAE Government, and prestigious universities such as The London School of

Economics Africa Center, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Columbia University, and Harvard University.

Focusing on five key emerging issues affecting the mental health of young Africans, the #ICanSurvive toolkit serves as a comprehensive Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) advocacy tool for the continent. It not only seeks to empower the youth but also provides policy recommendations, influences government decisions, and raises awareness about the urgent mental health challenges facing Africa, advocating for prompt attention and solutions.

Under the patronage of Madam Monica Geingos, the Former First Lady of the Republic of Namibia and the President of African First Ladies Development, the #ICanSurvive toolkit marks a milestone in mental health advocacy.

Following its launch, the Office of the Youth Envoy will host monthly Mental Health Baraza Circle sessions, engaging young people across the continent in meaningful dialogues centered on mental health, thereby encouraging advocacy and identifying strategies to enhance youth leadership and participation in mental health policy and implementation processes at local, national, and regional levels. This effort underscores the African Union’s commitment to addressing the mental health challenges among the continent’s youth, showcasing a collective commitment to nurturing a mentally resilient future for Africa’s next generation.

For more information contact:

Mr. Idris Muktar Ibrahim, | Office of the Youth Envoy | African Union Commission Tel: +15104961639 | E-mail: ibrahimi@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org

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