IILA took part in the National Stakeholders Meeting on Mental Health convened by the Ministry of Health in preparation for the upcoming 2nd National Mental Health Conference, scheduled for October 2025. The forum brought together key actors from government agencies, civil society, academia, and development partners to coordinate national mental health priorities and explore multisectoral approaches to implementation.

The meeting provided a platform for aligning strategies, discussing progress on the Mental Health Policy 2021–2030, and identifying priority areas for enhanced support and resourcing. Discussions emphasized strengthening community-based care, improving access to mental health services, integrating mental health into primary healthcare, and reducing stigma through education and legislative reform.

IILA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing mental health policy through legislative support, advocacy, and research. The organization highlighted the importance of addressing systemic gaps in care access and fostering an enabling environment for mental well-being, especially among vulnerable populations.

Participation in this meeting aligns with IILA’s broader mandate to support evidence-based policy development, increase visibility for mental health issues, and foster cross-sector collaboration. The engagement also marks a key milestone in building momentum ahead of the 2025 national conference and amplifying the role of policy in mental health systems strengthening.