AFD Champions Mental Health in Mauritania with Launch of Al Afiya Project in Hodh Ech Chargui
Paris, France – July 22, 2025 – The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) is pleased to announce its support for the launch of the Al Afiya project, a significant initiative dedicated to strengthening mental health services in the Hodh Ech Chargui region of Mauritania. This project underscores AFD’s commitment to improving the well-being of vulnerable populations and fostering sustainable development in partner countries.
The Al Afiya project, officially launched today, aims to address the critical need for accessible and quality mental health care in a region where such services have historically been underserved. Hodh Ech Chargui, located in the southeastern part of Mauritania, faces unique challenges, including geographical remoteness and limited resources, which can hinder individuals from accessing essential mental health support.
Through this partnership, AFD will provide crucial financial and technical assistance to facilitate the implementation of the Al Afiya project. The initiative is designed to encompass a multi-faceted approach, focusing on several key areas:
- Capacity Building for Healthcare Professionals: A core component of Al Afiya involves enhancing the skills and knowledge of local healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and community health agents. This will involve training programs focused on identifying, diagnosing, and managing common mental health conditions, as well as providing psychosocial support.
- Strengthening Mental Health Infrastructure: The project will contribute to the improvement of existing health facilities and, where necessary, the development of new infrastructure to offer dedicated mental health services. This includes ensuring the availability of essential medications and therapeutic tools.
- Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma: Recognizing the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues, Al Afiya will implement comprehensive community outreach and awareness campaigns. The goal is to educate the public about mental well-being, promote early intervention, and foster a more supportive environment for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
- Integrating Mental Health into Primary Healthcare: A key strategy of the project is to integrate mental health screening and basic care into existing primary healthcare services. This approach aims to make mental health support more accessible and less stigmatizing by embedding it within routine medical consultations.
- Collaboration and Partnership: The success of Al Afiya hinges on strong collaboration with the Mauritanian Ministry of Health, local authorities, civil society organizations, and affected communities. This collaborative spirit ensures that the project is tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the Hodh Ech Chargui region.
“We are delighted to support the launch of the Al Afiya project, which represents a vital step forward in enhancing mental health care in Mauritania,” stated [Insert Name and Title of AFD Representative, if available from press release, otherwise omit]. “Investing in mental health is investing in the overall health and prosperity of individuals and communities. We are confident that this project will make a tangible and lasting difference in the lives of many people in Hodh Ech Chargui.”
The AFD’s engagement in this project aligns with its broader commitment to supporting sustainable development goals, particularly those related to health and well-being. By empowering local stakeholders and strengthening the health system, Al Afiya is poised to contribute to a more resilient and inclusive society in Mauritania.
This initiative is expected to yield significant positive outcomes, including improved access to mental health services, a reduction in the prevalence of untreated mental health conditions, and a greater understanding and acceptance of mental health within the community. AFD looks forward to a successful partnership and the positive impact that the Al Afiya project will undoubtedly achieve.
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AFD published ‘L’AFD soutient le lancement du projet Al Afiya pour renforcer la santé mentale dans la région du Hodh Ech Chargui en Mauritanie’ at 2025-07-22 08:32. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.