Manzini – Young people across Eswatini took the spotlight on Friday during the Khululeka Mental Health Indaba 2025, held at The George Hotel, as the country joined the global community in marking World Mental Health Day under the theme “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies.”
The event, organised by the EU Eswatini Youth Advisory Board in partnership with the European Union Delegation to Eswatini, brought together mental health advocates, non-profit organisations and health professionals to address issues surrounding stigma, access to care and the importance of open conversations about mental wellness.
EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, said mental health remains a major concern for young people, adding that it is essential to create safe spaces where youth can talk about their struggles without fear of judgment. “Mental health affects many young people, that’s why it’s important to take time and talk about it,” he said.
The EU Eswatini Youth Advisory Board described the Indaba as “a powerful moment of honesty, courage and connection,” where young voices led discussions that broke stigma, inspired change and encouraged others to feel free and supported.
Unite Against Depression, a mental health advocacy organisation, joined the event and expressed gratitude to the EU Eswatini Youth Advisory Board for the invitation and recognition. “We are building a mentally healthy community,” the group said, reaffirming its commitment to creating awareness and strengthening support systems for people battling depression.
The Sifiso Mental Health Foundation, which works closely with the World Health Organization and several local and international partners, also marked the day by reminding EmaSwati that mental health support is always within reach. The foundation said, “Your mental health is of utmost importance. Remember, support is always within reach. You are not alone in this journey.”
Kwakha Indvodza, another non-profit organisation, said World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder that healing is not a luxury but a necessity. The group shared how its team prioritises wellbeing through daily practices such as taking time to rest, walking, finding joy in food and activities, and learning to say no.
“Let’s keep creating spaces where speaking out feels safe, and where self-care is seen as strength,” the organisation said. It encouraged people to make use of its Bhoboka platform, which provides free and confidential counselling and mentorship services through its mobile application available at www.ki-bhoboka.com.
The Eswatini Psychology Association called for stronger and more inclusive mental health systems, especially in times of crisis. Under this year’s theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies,” the association urged collective effort to ensure that no one is left behind when it matters most.
Participants at the Indaba agreed that mental health must remain a national priority, with continued collaboration between youth groups, civil society and development partners to create a future where every young person feels heard, supported and free.
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