**Question 2: are there existing policies or plans for managing mental health issues associated with COVID-19 in Africa?**

Since Africa recorded its first COVID-19 case in Egypt on 14 February 2020, a significant number of countries have reported cases in capital cities and multiple provinces. As of 2020, out of the WHO's 194-Member States, only 51% had mental health policies or plans that are in line with international and regional human rights instruments. More so, only 52% met the target relating to mental health promotion and prevention programs, and these are way short of the 80% target. The only 2020 target met was a reduction in the rate of suicide by 10%, but even then, only 35 countries had a stand-alone prevention strategy, policy, or plan.

In compliance with the WHO's Mental Health Policy Action Plan (2013–2020) that aimed at preventing mental disorders; providing care; enhancing recovery; promoting mental well-being and human rights, as well as reducing the mortality, morbidity, and disability of persons with mental disorders, the following are the existing MHP in African nations:
