ECOWAS Parliament Delegation Highlights Mental Health Challenges in Guinea

A delegation from the ECOWAS Parliament has concluded a series of high-level meetings in Guinea, focusing on substance abuse and mental health. The delegation, led by Hon. Fanta Condé, met with key government officials, including the Ministers of Health and Youth and Sports.According to the delegation, Guinea’s mental health sector faces significant challenges, including infrastructure gaps, workforce shortages, and weak psychosocial support systems. The Minister of Health acknowledged these issues and emphasized the need for inter-ministerial coordination and evidence-based policy actions.The delegation also visited the Institut Itinérant de Formation et de Prévention Intégrées contre la Drogue et autres Conduites Addictives (IIFPIDCA), which presented its community-led approach to reducing substance abuse and associated mental health risks.Guinean stakeholders welcomed the ECOWAS Parliamentary Mission, expressing hope for deeper regional collaboration and sustained support for national efforts. The delegation’s visit aims to advocate for resilient public health systems across the ECOWAS region.The meetings form part of the ECOWAS Parliament’s Sensitization Outreach Mission on Substance Abuse and Mental Health, which seeks to raise awareness and push for policy changes to address these critical issues in West Africa.