By: Kassahun Chanie
A groundbreaking manual designed to address the mental health challenges faced by vulnerable Ethiopian returnees was launched today in Addis Ababa.
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Manual and Facilitators' Guide, a joint initiative between the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Ethiopia, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, aims to provide tailored, community-driven support to those rebuilding their lives after returning to Ethiopia.
The launch event was a significant occasion, bringing together government officials, representatives from international organisations including the UN, NGO partners, and academics.
The event served as a platform to reaffirm commitment toward returning Ethiopians' mental and psychosocial well-being.
The manual seeks to fill critical gaps in psychosocial support, recognising that many returnees grapple with trauma, disorientation, and societal stigma that can hinder their reintegration.
Last year, IOM Ethiopia provided vital assistance to almost 20,000 returnees through transit and migration response centres, offering necessities like food, shelter, healthcare, and crucial psychosocial support.
Dr Seharela Abdulahi, State Minister of Health, emphasised the manual's potential to improve care. “This new Manual elevates quality of care, empowering frontline actors and service providers to deliver context-specific and community-driven mental health care, ensuring that a professional and coherent approach is available," Dr Seharela told attendees.
She stated that her ministry is committed to facilitating its integration into existing healthcare systems.
In a related development, Huria Ali, State Minister of the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, highlighted the importance of mental well-being in the reintegration process. "This guide prioritises the mental well-being of returning migrants as an essential component of their successful and dignified reintegration, helping them rebuild their lives at home with dignity," Huria stated.
The manual supports Ethiopia's National Mental Health Strategic Plan (2020-2025) by advocating for the integration of mental health services within the broader healthcare system, emphasising primary and community-based approaches.
The guide’s development and dissemination were made possible through funding from the European Union and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).
In her opening remarks, Abibatou Wane, IOM Ethiopia Chief of Mission, stressed the urgency of translating the manual into practical action. "This is not just a technical resource; it's a call to action," she said. Addressing the attendees at the launch, Wane conveyed that her organisation is committed to ensuring these materials are actively used to guide collective response to the psychosocial needs of returnees. “Their implementation is a vital step toward ensuring that mental health and psychosocial support are recognised as essential pillars of dignified and sustainable reintegration," she added.
The launch marks the beginning of a larger initiative that includes facilitator training and integration of the manual into ongoing reintegration and health programs throughout the nation.
The collaborating organisations expressed hope that the manual will significantly contribute to the overall well-being and successful reintegration of Ethiopian returnees, enabling them to build stable and fulfilling lives.
