Banjul, The Gambia — The Government of The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the mental well-being of its citizens with the national launch of The Gambia Mental Health Investment Case report. The event, held in Banjul to mark World Mental Health Day, underscored a renewed pledge to make mental health a priority for all Gambians.
The launch brought together government leaders, health professionals, and development partners. Among the keynote speakers was His Excellency Muhammad B.S. Jallow, the Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, who emphasized that “Mental health is an inseparable part of our well-being — it is not only a health concern, but also a national development priority, a human rights issue, and a moral duty”.
The Investment Case findings reinforce that message, showing that investing in mental health is both a moral and an economic imperative. Mental health conditions — including depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, substance use disorders, and suicide — are estimated to cost The Gambia about 0.48% of its GDP, with 99% of this burden arising from indirect costs, such as lost productivity and reduced workforce participation. Absenteeism alone accounts for more than half of these losses.
Yet, the report also brings a message of hope and opportunity. It shows that strategic, cost-effective investments in mental health can yield substantial social and economic returns. For example, interventions for alcohol use disorder could generate a return of 15.8 Dalasi (GMD) for every 1 GMD invested, while investments in tackling epilepsy and depression could yield returns of GMD 8.0 and GMD 7.3, respectively.
Prevention emerges as a key driver of long-term resilience. Universal school-based socio-emotional learning programs could deliver a return of GMD 3.9 within seven years, illustrating that early interventions lay the foundation for healthier, more productive future.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, called for collective actions across all sectors: “The mental health investment case provides us with the evidence we need to act decisively and boldly. Every Dalasi we invest in mental health strengthens our economy, our communities, and our future. Together, we can build a healthier, more prosperous, and more compassionate Gambia.” For his part, the WHO Representative, Dr. Nathan Nsubuga Bakyaita, stated that the launch of the Mental Health Investment Case positions The Gambia as a global leader in commitment and compassion. He emphasized that the event demonstrates how investing in mental health generates economic and social gains, transforming costs into hope, supported by strong evidence.
With solid evidence in hand, the Gambia is sending a clear message: protecting mental health is not just about individual well-being — it is a cornerstone of national development, stability, and shared prosperity.
The report is available at this link.
