The 31st Cape Town International Kite Festival has returned to the Mother City, serving as a symbol of hope for those facing mental health challenges. Organized by Cape Mental Health, the event features colorful kites soaring over Youngsfield Military Base in Wynberg. It highlights the need for accessible mental health services in South Africa.
For the past three decades, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has played a pivotal role in helping people speak openly about mental health without the fear of stigma. Organized by the non-governmental organization Cape Mental Health, the festival has become a beacon for mental health awareness.
The sky above the Youngsfield Military Base in Wynberg transformed into a spectacle of colour and creativity as various kites took to the sky during the 31st edition of the event, returning to the Mother City.
Cape Mental Health CEO Professor Ingrid Daniels emphasized the festival's significance, stating it has long been a symbol of hope and resilience. She noted, “In South Africa about 16,5 people live with a mental health condition and 92% of that group have no access to metal health services. This is a problem for us and so what Cape Mental Health does is it provides free mental health services which is why the Kite Festival is a very important event for us because the proceeds go towards helping those battling with mental health issues.”
The event underscores the ongoing challenges in South Africa, where access to mental health support remains limited for many. By raising funds through the festival, Cape Mental Health continues to offer free services, fostering resilience and reducing stigma around mental health.