Cape Verde Overhauls National Mental Health Protocols
The Cape Verdean government has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its psychiatric care system, convening a summit of healthcare experts in Praia to modernize the nation’s mental health strategies. The initiative aims to rewrite clinical protocols that have remained unchanged for nearly a decade.
Modernizing Mental Healthcare
Addressing a gathering of doctors, psychologists, and nurses on Monday, Secretary of State for Health Artur Veiga emphasized that the rapid social and economic shifts in Cape Verde demand a more sophisticated approach to psychiatric care. The primary goal is to revise the therapeutic protocol established in 2017, ensuring it aligns with current scientific evidence and modern clinical needs.
“The challenges associated with mental illness, addictions, and psychological suffering require increasingly robust, humanized responses,” Veiga stated. “This revision is of high strategic importance to standardize practices and ensure equity in access to care across the archipelago.”
Data-Driven Decisions
While public concern regarding mental health is rising, the government currently lacks definitive data to confirm a surge in cases. To address this, Veiga announced that the health ministry will conduct an in-depth assessment of the country’s mental health status. “We are not saying there isn’t an increase [in cases], but we are going to conduct a more rigorous study to understand the reality on the ground,” he explained.
Addressing Stigma and Staffing Shortages
A key focus of the new strategy will be the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly those living on the streets who face severe social stigmatization. Veiga also issued a call for greater family involvement, stressing that clinical intervention must be supported by a strong domestic foundation.
The government’s push for reform comes amid ongoing concerns regarding a critical shortage of specialists. As recently as late 2024, reports indicated that only three psychiatrists were serving the entire nation, with many regions forced to rely on international medical missions to fill the gaps. By updating protocols and identifying resource needs during this week-long summit, the government hopes to create a more sustainable framework for psychiatric services.
The working group is scheduled to conclude its initial assessment and protocol revision on Friday, marking a significant step toward integrating mental health into Cape Verde’s broader public health agenda.
Image: Pexels – Alex Green
