Mental health is gaining long-overdue attention across Africa, and leading that change are advocates building safe spaces, tech platforms, and care systems that speak directly to African realities.
These changemakers are breaking stigma, improving access, and making mental wellness a public priority.
Here areTop 5 Mental Health Advocates in Africa:
– Dr. Nyaradzai Mavhunga (Zimbabwe): Clinical psychologist and founder of Mental Health Matters Zimbabwe, leading school outreach and workplace wellness initiatives across Southern Africa.
– Hauwa Ojeifo (Nigeria): Founder of She Writes Woman, pioneering mental health movement offering therapy, helplines, and policy advocacy for Nigerians living with mental illness.
– Sitawa Wafula (Kenya): Mental health blogger and survivor, creator of “My Mind My Funk,” one of Kenya’s earliest mental health platforms focused on lived experience and support groups.
– Zuleika Patel (South Africa): Youth advocate and public speaker, actively promoting mental health awareness in schools and connecting young people to support services via social media.
– Dr. Yassir Aboujaoudé (Morocco): Psychiatrist and mental health trainer, focused on trauma recovery and community-based mental health systems in North Africa.
These five are leading boldly, but across Africa, many more are working to make mental wellness a right, not a privilege.
This ranking is based on verified advocacy work, public impact, and leadership in mental health across Africa.
Sources include reputable media profiles, organizational records, and recent advocacy achievements as of July 2025.
Image Credit: Everyday Health
