Across Africa, millions of young people struggle silently with mental health challenges. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 970 million people globally—around one in every eight—were living with a mental disorder as of 2019, with anxiety and depression among the most common conditions. However, Esther Eruchie is working to address this widespread mental health gap through her innovation, FriendnPal.
In low- and middle-income countries, an estimated 76 to 85 per cent of individuals with mental health disorders do not receive treatment. The consequences are far-reaching, as depression and anxiety disorders are responsible for the loss of about 12 billion working days each year, costing the global economy over $1 trillion annually.
In 2020, Esther Eruchie founded FriendnPal, a digital mental health platform that provides confidential, affordable, and culturally relevant support for young people in Africa. With a mobile-first model, FriendnPal connects users to licensed therapists, trained listeners, and evidence-based mental wellness resources, helping those without access to mental healthcare.
“We are a team of young, passionate Africans building the first AI mental health app in Africa—FriendnPal—where everyone can have access to mental healthcare services, even those in the most remote areas. Our goal is to reduce inequalities and contribute to a thriving economy,” Eruchie said.
The idea for FriendnPal was born from a personal tragedy. After losing her mother to depression, Eruchie became more aware of the cultural stigma that often surrounds mental health in many African communities. She noticed a growing number of young people silently struggling without access to professional care or safe spaces. What began as a concept for a peer-support app gradually evolved into a more comprehensive mental health platform, developed with clinical guidance and a user-centred approach.
As of 2025, FriendnPal reports that it has served more than 5,000 individuals in marginalised communities, conducted over 500 medical screenings, and supported more than 200 youths in overcoming drug addiction. Its services include 24/7 chat support, one-on-one virtual therapy, and community-based mental health programs designed to reach users regardless of time or location.
“I like the easy and simple UI. The best part is that the user directly connects with the therapist,” says Hiren Ghoniya, one of the platform’s users.
FriendnPal has also formed partnerships with various organisations in and beyond Africa, including Buluzo Foundation, The Humanitarian Network UK, SheUnitesAfrica, the Nigerian Red Cross (Ikota Division), and Baaadu U.S.—extending its reach and credibility in the mental health industry.
As mental health continues to gain attention in policy and development conversations across the continent, Esther Eruchie is emerging as a notable advocate for improved access to mental healthcare. Through FriendnPal, she is helping challenge long-held stigmas and working toward a future where mental health support is normalised and accessible.
