Bridging mental health gaps through digital Innovation
Challenge
In Rwanda, refugees and members of other vulnerable groups often suffer from significant mental health issues. UNHCR and local authorities struggle to provide the necessary services, while also facing outreach challenges due to the social stigma around mental health.
Solution
Develop interactive mobile campaigns and pioneer online platforms for mental health services. Wanji Games, an interactive audio adventure, will deliver mental health information via mobile phones without the need for internet connectivity, while an interactive voice response (IVR) system will offer tailored mental health support to callers.
Impact
This initiative could benefit more than 113,000 forcibly displaced people (80% of the displaced population in Rwanda), in addition to many host community members, with improved access to mental health services and, as a result, better outcomes.
Project impact
Other impact
10% reduction in mental health related stigma,
7% increase in knowledge about mental health
5% rise in individuals seeking psychosocial support.
5% decline in negative coping mechanisms, including isolation and weekly alcohol use