Partners Unite to Commemorate World Mental Health Day
St John of God Hospitaller Services Malawi joined community members, partners, and stakeholders in commemorating Mental Health Awareness Day at Zolozolo Ground in Mzuzu.
Awareness Walk
The event began with a mass awareness walk from Mzuzu Stadium to Zolozolo Ground, bringing together participants in a collective effort to promote mental health awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health. At the ground, various organisations set up pavilions to showcase their work, share information, and engage with the community on mental health and related services.
Leaders Engage with Mental Health Initiatives
The event was graced by Mr Chiyembekezo Mvula, Deputy Mayor of Mzuzu, as the Guest of Honour. Other distinguished attendees included Dr Charles Masulani, CEO of St John of God Hospitaller Services Malawi, Dr Lilian Chirwa and other representatives from the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), Hon. Frasco Paul Mkandawire, Member of Parliament for Mzuzu City North Constituency; Hon. William Chikweta Kaweche, Member of Parliament for Mzuzu City South East Constituency; and Hon. Florence Shapilo Khimbi, Member of Parliament for Rumphi East, alongside representatives from the Malawi Defence Force, Councillors, Traditional leaders, and other distinguished guests.
Speeches and Performances Promote Mental Health Awareness
The programme featured speeches, mental health talks by Mzuzu Health Initiative (MHI), drama performances, poems, and songs. These activities provided an engaging platform to share knowledge, encourage open conversations, challenge stigma, and emphasise the importance of mental well-being.
Key Speeches
Guest of Honour — Mr Chiyembekezo Mvula: Highlighted mental health challenges in Mzuzu, the need for greater awareness, and the importance of seeking help. He also spoke about the council’s efforts to address contributing factors.
Dr Charles Masulani — CEO, St John of God Hospitaller Services Malawi: Emphasised the need for greater national investment in mental health and highlighted challenges such as family difficulties and substance abuse.
Students Champion Mental Health Awareness
Students also took part in the commemoration, holding placards with mental health messages to raise awareness, encourage open conversations, and help challenge stigma surrounding mental health. These activities provided an engaging platform to share knowledge, encourage open conversations, challenge stigma, and emphasise the importance of mental well-being.
Partners Unite to Promote Mental Health Awareness
The event brought together partners from various sectors, including KNH, BMZ, CBM, Seed Global, Mzuzu SACCO, Ekwendeni College, the High Court, Malawi Police Service, Moyale Barracks, Plan International, ESCOM, Right to Care, Motivational Africa, Malawi Prisons, Mibawa TV, Hossan Radio, Karonga District Health Office, Mzuzu University, MBC, Times TV, and Tigawane, among others.
The gathering highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, community leaders, organisations, and other stakeholders in promoting mental health awareness, improving access to support, and building communities where everyone can seek help with dignity and without fear of stigma or discrimination.
💚 Together, let’s break the stigma, start conversations, and make mental health a priority!