Three days of research, implementation, innovation, lived experience and bold policy action — reimagining mental health systems for Africa and the world.
Together for Mental Health: African Leadership. Global Impact · #GMHAC2027
8–10 February 2027 · Nairobi, Kenya
The Together for Mental Health, African Leadership. Global Impact conference will showcase African-led mental health research and innovation, highlighting locally driven solutions with relevance both regionally and globally. By convening diverse stakeholders and featuring a curated programme of groundbreaking work, the conference will amplify African contributions to global mental health, foster mutual learning and South-to-South exchange in addition to bolstering connections between research, practice, and policy. Through networking, community building, and knowledge sharing, it aims to catalyse collaboration, scale effective innovations, and build momentum for strengthening mental health systems across Africa. Beyond this, the conference will advocate for increased investment to promote mental health across all life stages. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you in Nairobi!
The Mental Health Innovation Network (MHIN) is delighted to deliver the Global Mental Health Africa Conference in collaboration with the Science for Africa Foundation. The Innovation Fair at #GMHAC2027 represents an exciting opportunity to showcase and celebrate African-led mental health innovation. We are excited to create a space where innovators can share their work, build new partnerships, and inspire action towards scalable, evidence-informed solutions. Bringing together innovators from across the region, the Fair will highlight cutting-edge initiatives and research that are advancing mental health systems, services, and outcomes. Showcasing impactful ideas, amplifying diverse voices, and facilitating knowledge exchange will accelerate the adoption and scale-up of innovations that can transform mental health care across Africa and beyond. We look forward to welcoming a diverse group of innovators to Nairobi and to celebrating the creativity, leadership, and impact that continue to drive progress in mental health across the continent.
Science for Africa Foundation will host the Global Mental Health Africa Conference alongside the Mental Health Innovation Network in February 2027 in Nairobi, Kenya. This unique event will bring together policymakers, researchers, practitioners, funders, and people with lived experience to showcase African-led mental health innovation, foster collaboration, and advance scalable, evidence-informed solutions across Africa.
Learn moreShare your mental health research and insights with a global audience. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers are invited to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations for the Global Mental Health Africa Conference 2027. Abstract submission is now open.
SubmitThe #GMHAC2027 Innovation Fair will bring together mental health innovators from across the region to showcase cutting-edge solutions, share best practices, and foster collaboration among Africa's thriving mental health community. Selected innovators will have the opportunity to develop materials to highlight their work at the conference. Innovation Fair submissions are now open!
SubmitA seat at the table for every voice that matters. The SFA Foundation and MHIN are ensuring financial barriers don't determine who shapes the future of mental health in Africa. A limited number of scholarships — covering registration, travel and accommodation — are available for early career researchers, students, and persons with lived experience who would otherwise be unable to attend #GMHAC2027. Applications open 20 June.
ApplyThe Global Mental Health Africa Conference brings together the brightest minds in research, the boldest voices from communities, and the decision-makers who shape policy — to close the mental health treatment gap across Africa.
From cutting-edge neuroscience to community-led care models, #GMHAC2027 is where evidence meets action. Convened by the SFA Foundation and MHIN, it is three days that will define the next decade of mental health on the continent.
About the Conference
Nairobi · February 2027Each theme runs across the three days with keynotes, panels, abstract sessions and an innovation showcase.
This theme emphasises a broad range of platforms of care (incl. traditional and faith healing, task sharing, primary care integration, digital health approaches); care for specific populations (incl. youth mental health, chronic conditions); cultural understandings of mental health and culturally responsive care; scale, sustainability, and resilient systems; measurement and evidence of quality and impact.
This theme emphasises co-production and participation, lived experience leadership, shifting power, facilitating and recognising diverse perspectives, capacity-building, advocacy, youth leadership, family and caregiver empowerment.
This theme emphasises translating evidence into policy and practice; policy reform, mental health and brain capital, sustainable financing, reimagined funding models and power shifts in changing landscape and systems strengthening.
This theme emphasises policy-relevant and locally African-led research, innovation, implementation research and emerging approaches advancing mental health.
