Universal Friendship Organisation (UFO) has issued a strong appeal to government and health authorities, calling for immediate intervention to support individuals with severe mental health conditions living on Ghana’s streets.
In a press release dated February 20, 2026, the Organisation described the growing presence of persons struggling with mental health challenges in public spaces as a “national crisis” requiring urgent, coordinated action.
President of UFO, Samuel Adobah, said recent observations by the group point to worsening conditions in several communities, where vulnerable individuals are left without shelter, medical care, or social support.
“We are witnessing a tragedy unfold in real-time. This is not only a public safety concern, but a profound violation of the dignity and rights of our fellow citizens,” Mr. Adobah stated.
He stressed that mental health must be treated as a critical public health priority, noting that while Ghana has legal and institutional frameworks such as the Mental Health Authority, implementation gaps have limited their impact on the ground.
Call for Coordinated National Response
UFO is urging His Excellency the President, the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, psychiatric hospitals, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to activate a nationwide emergency response plan.
Among the key measures proposed are:
A coordinated nationwide street outreach and rescue operation to connect affected individuals with professional care and safe accommodation.
Expansion of emergency and long-term shelter facilities with adequate rehabilitation services.
Increased investment in community-based mental health care and decongestion of psychiatric hospitals.
Full enforcement of existing mental health policies and practical implementation of the Mental Health Act.
Establishment of a National Mental Health Check-ups Day to promote awareness and early detection.
Mr. Adobah emphasised that the objective should not simply be to remove people from the streets, but to ensure comprehensive rehabilitation, reintegration, and sustained support.
A Test of National Commitment
The Organisation called on civil society groups, faith-based institutions, and the private sector to join the advocacy for humane, inclusive mental health policies.
“This is a test of our national character,” Mr. Adobah said. “True peace and friendship begin with how we treat our most vulnerable.”
UFO pledged its readiness to collaborate with government and other stakeholders to design and implement sustainable solutions that uphold the dignity, safety, and well-being of affected individuals.
