Kumasi spiritual centre housing 2,000 mentally ill persons faces closure

By Hubeyidatu Mumuni

The Mental Health Authority has commenced steps to shut down a spiritual healing centre in Kumasi where more than 2,000 persons with mental health conditions are reportedly being kept.

Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, Dr Eugene Kobla Dordoye, disclosed that some of the individuals at the facility believe they are receiving spiritual treatment from the leader of the centre.

According to him, the facility was previously licensed to operate, but its licence has since expired, raising concerns over its continued operation and the conditions under which persons with mental health conditions are being kept.

“We wanted to close it down. He has a licence, but it has expired,” Dr Dordoye said.

He further expressed concern over reports that some individuals at the centre have been chained, questioning how health professionals could effectively provide the necessary care and treatment to people who are restrained.

He stressed that such conditions could undermine efforts to provide appropriate medical intervention and protect the rights and well-being of persons living with mental health conditions.

Dr Dordoye made the remarks at the 5th Graduation Ceremony of the Ghana Christian University College, where he also cautioned the public against prescribing or administering medication to persons with mental health conditions without proper medical guidance.

He urged Ghanaians to seek help from qualified mental health professionals rather than relying on unverified treatment practices that could potentially worsen a person’s condition or endanger their lives.

The Mental Health Authority’s move forms part of efforts to ensure that persons with mental health conditions receive appropriate, safe and humane care in accordance with established professional and regulatory standards.