Speaking on World Mental Health Day, Deputy Minister Anna Thandi Moraka called for stronger global cooperation to address mental health challenges, especially those affecting children and young people
On 10 October 2025, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Anna Thandi Moraka, delivered remarks at the Mental Health and Wellness Seminar held in Singapore. The event was organised in collaboration with the Character and Leadership Academy as part of the global commemoration of World Mental Health Day.
In her address, Deputy Minister Moraka underscored the urgent and growing need to elevate mental health as a global development, human rights and diplomatic priority. She emphasised that mental well-being is increasingly recognised as a core component of sustainable development, requiring long-term commitment from governments, international institutions and civil society.
The Deputy Minister also stressed the importance of stronger international cooperation to address mental health challenges that transcend national borders. She observed that the impacts of mental health conditions are not confined to individual nations and therefore call for collective, coordinated responses.
A key focus of her remarks centred on the mental health needs of children and young people. Deputy Minister Moraka highlighted that this demographic faces unique stressors and vulnerabilities, amplified by rapid technological change, societal pressures and global uncertainty. She called for targeted interventions, improved support systems and inclusive policies to safeguard their mental well-being.
The seminar provided a platform for dialogue among policymakers, educators and mental health advocates, reinforcing the significance of building resilient communities through shared knowledge and collaborative action.
Source: Department of International Relations and Cooperation, SA
