Mental Health Capability Assessment in Kinshasa and Brazzaville to Advance Mental Health Programs in DRC and ROC

  • Published
  • By Dreshawn Murray
  • USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs

USAFE-AFAFRICA Office of the Command Surgeon completed the Mental Health Capability Assessment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Republic of Congo (ROC).

The assessment, held from 8-12 July in DRC and 15-19 July in ROC respectively, aimed to provide clarity on the current capabilities of both countries in relation to mental health and to develop a strategic plan for advancing their mental health programs.

Maj. Francis Ugoh, mission commander from the USAFE Surgeon General Office, emphasized the significance of the assessment, stating, "Mental Health challenges are country and culture-specific, requiring a targeted focus approach and collaborative and partnership-building lines of efforts to be able to address the diversity of needs and support each specific existing reality.”

The Mental Health Capability Assessment, conducted by a team of experts from Spangdahlem Air Force base, Germany, Maj Scott Andrews, Capt Ariana Oregel, MSgt Jonathon Cooper and RAF Croughton, United Kingdom, TSgt Brandi Mitchell. The team gathered valuable information to better understand the mental health landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo (ROC). The assessment will serve as a foundation for the development of a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan, which will guide the countries in improving their mental health services and support systems.

The assessment aimed to identify gaps in mental health services, assess the availability of resources, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs. By collecting comprehensive data and engaging with local stakeholders, the assessment team gained valuable insights into the specific needs and challenges faced by the mental health sector in both countries.

“It has been a great experience and privilege to learn from the Republic of Congo and observe how they care for their military members and civilian population,” said TSgt Mitchell.

The outcome of the assessment will enable the USAFE-AFAFRICA SG office and its partners to develop a list of medical activities that will enhance the preparedness of the DRC and ROC medical corps to support peace and stability operations in the region.

The collaboration of the Surgeon General Office with the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of the Congo shows commitment to improving mental health in a journey towards building resilient mental health systems in the region.