The Hearing was chaired by the Chairperson of the SAHRC, Adv. Bongani Majola. In addition, the panel consisted of Ms. Angie Makwetla, Adv. Bokankatla Joseph Malatji; Commissioners of the SAHRC and Professor Katherine Sorsdahl, Co-Director of the Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health at the University of Cape Town.

The Life Esidimeni tragedy, which led to 144 deaths and numerous other people being reported missing, was a key precipitant for the SAHRC’s hearing. Recognising the significant human rights issues raised by this incident, the hearing considered mental health more broadly and thus focused on the systemic, social, cultural, political and economic concerns that affect the lives and the rights of Mental Health Care Users.

The Commission has made numerous findings emerging out of the Hearing.  Amongst these it has found that there is considerable under-investment in mental health by the South African government.  It highlighted barriers preventing access to mental health services.  The neglect and lack of services were particularly problematic in rural areas and in respect of services for children and adolescents.

The Commission will be launching the Report at the South African Human Rights Commission, Braampark Office Park, 33 Hoofd Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg at 10:00 until 11:30 AM.

Ends

Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission

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