Resume
Zambia’s correctional system continues to face a mental health (MH) crisis, with both inmates and staff experiencing high levels of trauma, stigma, and untreated conditions. Previous CISU-supported interventions demonstrated that progress is achievable: record systems were strengthened, drug supplies improved, inmate peer groups introduced, and collaboration between MoH, ZCS, and civil society established. Building on these important foundations, the new programme aims to expand and consolidate MH care across correctional centres. It will embed services within MoH and ZCS structures, address the needs of both inmates and staff, adapt approaches to rural and urban contexts, and link practice with national policy reform. Anchored by Ubumi Zambia with PHAC, IBF, CELIM, TWG-MH, and duty bearers, it will further strengthen CSOs through training, advocacy, and policy mapping. Deliverables include a ZCS MH policy and a Memorandum of Collaboration to secure long-term impact.