IDRF showcases CAD$2.9M project to combat suicide
THE International Development & Relief Foundation (IDRF) celebrated a significant milestone with the successful showcase of its CAD$2.9 million “Safeguarding the Human Dignity and Rights of Populations at Risk for Ill-Mental Health in Vulnerable Communities across Guyana” (SPAR) project.
The event, held on Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, highlighted the project’s achievements in suicide prevention since its inception in 2022.
The Project Showcase served as a platform to spotlight the SPAR project’s progress, including nationwide Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention and the launch of an innovative Mental Health Portal aimed at fostering community resilience and mental well-being.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, expressed strong support for the initiative, stating, “We in Guyana have been actively addressing high suicide rates, and this project contributes to that reduction. By providing in-person training on suicide prevention and launching an online mental health portal, the population is able to access resources and educate themselves. This is the future.” Minister Anthony also acknowledged Canada’s strong support in other areas such as maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH), and sexual and reproductive health (SRH).
Nabil Ali, IDRF’s Chief Operating Officer, remarked, “This event not only showcases the tangible outcomes of our collaborative efforts but also underscores the deepening relationship between Canada and Guyana in addressing critical mental health challenges. Through strategic partnerships with local stakeholders and government ministries, including the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education, IDRF has significantly enhanced mental health literacy and support systems in Guyana.”
Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana commended the Government of Guyana for its ongoing efforts to address mental health, most recently with the launch of the country’s national mental health action plan and national suicide prevention plan (2024-2030). “Mental illness is not a Guyanese problem, or even a Canadian problem, it is a global problem from which no society is immune,” he noted, while pledging Canada’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s efforts to address mental health as well as to the wider health sector.
The event drew a diverse audience of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, educators, and representatives from non-governmental organisations. Discussions and presentations underscored the importance of sustained investment in mental health initiatives to build resilient communities and empower individuals facing mental health challenges.
Moving forward, IDRF remains dedicated to expanding its impact and supporting sustainable mental health solutions in Guyana. For more information on IDRF’s SPAR project and its ongoing efforts in mental health advocacy, please visit IDRF’s project page.
