The fight to curb the scourge of suicides in Guyana was in focus when on Wednesday, the International Development & Relief Foundation (IDRF) showcased its CA$2.9 million “Safeguarding the Human Dignity and Rights of Populations at Risk for Ill-Mental Health in Vulnerable Com-munities across Guyana” (SPAR) project, a Canadian High Commission release stated yesterday.
The event was held at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown, and according to the release, it reinforced Canada’s footprint in the local health sector, as well as IDRF’s impact on mental health initiatives in the region.
The IDRF is described on its website as a non-profit organisation in Canada working around the world for international development and relief programmes based on Islamic principles.
The showcasing of the project served as a platform to highlight the SPAR’s progress and achievements to date since its inception in 2022. Key highlights included the Gatekeeper Training on Suicide Prevention conducted nationwide and the launch of the innovative Mental Health Portal, aimed at fostering community resilience and mental well-being.
Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, who attended the event, expressed his support. “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.” He also acknowledged Canada’s strong support in other areas such as maternal, newborn and child health, and sexual and reproductive health.
IDRF’s Chief Operating Officer, Nabil Ali, told the gathering, “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.” He added, “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.”
Meanwhile, Canada’s High Commis-sioner to Guyana, Mark Berman, in his remarks, commended the Government of Guyana for its ongoing efforts to address mental health, citing the recent 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 also pledged Canada’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s efforts in addressing mental health as well as to the wider health sector.
The showcase drew participation from a diverse audience of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, educators, and representatives from non-governmental organisations. The discussions and presentations underscored the importance of sustained investment in mental health initiatives to build resilient communities and empower individuals facing mental health challenges, the release added.
