A New Era for Well-being

Posted on: 2025-10-17. Hol Joseph - Communication Officer / MoH

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Juba, 17th October 2025 — Ministry of Health Launches First National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Strategic Plan

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The National Ministry of Health today marked a pivotal moment for the nation's well-being, launching the first-ever National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Strategic Plan for 2025–2029. This comprehensive plan is a commitment to address the country's mental health needs, enhance the efficiency of care delivery, and provide social and financial risk protection for the overall improved mental health of all South Sudanese.

 

Prioritizing Mental Health as a Human Right

Developed under the leadership of the National Ministry of Health with critical technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other key partners, the Strategic Plan sets a clear agenda:

• Prioritize mental health across all sectors.
• Ensure access to care for all citizens.
• Strengthen community resilience and support systems.
• Treat mental health as a fundamental human right.

The strategy moves beyond viewing mental health purely as an illness, instead positioning it as a core component of public health and national development.

 

The Cost of Neglect: Undermining Peace and Productivity

During the launching ceremony, the Minister of Health, Hon. Sarah Cleto Rial, delivered a powerful message underscoring the urgency of the new plan.

“Everyone is affected by mental health problems in South Sudan,” Hon. Sarah stated. “This stress weighs not only on our bodies but on our minds; in such a context, mental health can't be sidelined without support.”

She emphasized that ignoring this crisis carries a heavy price, noting, “We cannot achieve universal health care or health coverage. Untreated mental disorders undermine productivity, social cohesion, and peace.”

 

From Paper to Practice: A Call for Action

Minister Sarah Cleto stressed that improving the nation's mental health is a shared responsibility, calling for self-improvement in personal behavior and interactions within the community.

Her most emphatic call was for the new strategy to move “from paper to practice,” urging all stakeholders to commit to the plan's implementation to “heal minds, restore hope, and strengthen the nation.”

The launch event also served to commemorate World Mental Health Day, which is observed annually on October 10th. This year’s theme, “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies,” highlighted the particular relevance and timeliness of the new strategic plan in the South Sudanese context.

The National Ministry of Health encourages all partners, community leaders, and citizens to join the effort to ensure the successful implementation of the National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Strategic Plan.