Bel-Aqua draws over 1,000 people to Healing Together mental health vigil

Over 1,000 people gathered at the Alliance Française in Accra on 16 October 2026 for the fourth edition of the Bel-Aqua Healing Together Vigil. Held under the theme "Every Mind Has a Story… Respond with Hope," the event served as a cornerstone of the company’s "Take a Break" initiative. The vigil aimed to foster a culture of listening without judgment and providing community support for those navigating mental health challenges, particularly the youth.

The evening featured a variety of interactive segments, including a "Story Wall" where participants shared personal experiences and moderated discussions led by mental health professionals. Crucially, the initiative offered free consultations with psychologists, which drew a large number of university students seeking help for depression and societal pressures. The event combined these clinical supports with live musical performances and an after-party led by DJ Sleek to create a supportive, community-driven atmosphere.

Marking Bel-Aqua’s 15th anniversary, Head of Marketing Chris Addo Sarkodie challenged corporate Ghana to increase investment in mental health support. He announced that the company intends to bridge the existing treatment gap by launching mobile mental health clinics within educational institutions and workplaces. This expansion is designed to reach young people in environments where they are most likely to experience high levels of stress and anxiety.

These private sector efforts address a significant crisis in Ghana’s healthcare landscape, where an estimated 4 million people suffer from mental health issues. Despite the high prevalence, approximately 98% of those affected do not have access to treatment. This gap is exacerbated by deep-seated social stigma and a critical shortage of medical professionals, with fewer than 60 practicing psychiatrists currently serving the entire country.