Burkina Faso faces a severe shortage of formal mental health services, with only a handful of psychiatrists serving a population of millions. In this gap, traditional healers, such as marabouts and spiritual practitioners, play a central role in how people understand and treat mental illness. For many communities, mental distress is closely tied to spiritual beliefs, leading families to seek help outside the biomedical system. This coexistence of belief systems reflects both cultural norms and the practical reality of limited access to clinical care.
Efforts are emerging to bridge the divide between traditional and formal mental health care. Some practitioners and policymakers are exploring ways to build collaboration, improve referrals, and expand community-based support. The challenge lies in respecting deeply rooted cultural practices while ensuring safe, effective treatment. Strengthening mental health systems in Burkina Faso will likely depend on integrating these parallel approaches, expanding clinical capacity while acknowledging the influence and reach of traditional healers.
Read the complete story, written by Sean Christie of Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism, here.
