Developing Effective Mental Health Laws in Africa

• From: Department for International Development
• Published: 1 January 2009

• Country: Uganda, South Africa, Zambia, Ghana
• Document Type: Briefing
• Theme: Health

Abstract

A review of the mental health laws of four African countries was undertaken. Using the WHO Checklist on Mental Health Legislation, the laws of Ghana, South Africa, Uganda and Zambia were analysed in order to generate recommendations for other low- and middle-income countries undertaking law reform. Recommendations regarding the following issues are made:
-Competence, Capacity and Consent
-Promoting Care in Communities
-The Role of the Family
-Rights of People with Mental Disabilities

Citation

Mental Health Policy and Service Development,Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 3 pp.

Links

Developing Effective Mental Health Laws in Africa

Published 1 January 2009