Illuminating hope: Our collective journey towards mental wellness
By Flavia LwangaAs we observe the World Suicide Prevention Day, I find myself reflecting on the profoundresponsibility we hold as leaders, colleagues, and fellow human beings.In my role as the Human Resource Director at Airtel Uganda, I have witnessed firsthand the silent struggles that many face, often hidden behind brave smiles and professional demeanors.In Uganda, the statistics are sobering. A recent report indicates that 30% of our population suffers from some degree of mental illness. Behind each number is a person – a colleague, a friend, a family member carrying a weight that often feels too heavy to bear alone.The stigma surrounding mental health issues compounds this burden, creating a cycle of silence that can have devastating consequences.There is an urgent need to create a safe space for these crucial conversations in workplaces. For example, at Airtel Uganda, over the past three months, we have initiated a series of mental health sessions, inviting therapists and psychologists to speak with our staff.These sessions aren’t just about imparting information; they are about breaking down barriers, fostering understanding, and encouraging our team to seek help without fear or shame.The response has been overwhelming. I have seen colleagues find the courage to share their stories, to reach out for support, and to offer a listening ear to others.Each conversation is a small victory against the stigma that has for too long shrouded mental health issues in silence.At the recent launch of the Queen’s Ball, themed “Shine a light: Illuminating mentalhealth,” Her Royal Highness Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda the Queen of Buganda shared a powerful message:“This journey is deeply personal. I have seen how mental health challenges affect individuals, families, and communities. But I have also witnessed the transformative power of compassion and support.”These words resonate deeply with in the fight for better mental wellness in he country.On this World Suicide Prevention Day, I want to extend this message of hope and action to all:1. Reach Out: If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.2. Listen and Support: To those who notice someone struggling, your simple act of listening without judgment can be lifesaving.3. Educate Yourself: Understanding mental health issues helps us respond with empathy and effectiveness.4. Spread Awareness: Share information about mental health resources. Your share could be the lifeline someone needs.5. Advocate: Join us in calling for betterment of health policies and resources in our workplaces and communities.Remember, help is always available. If you or someone you know is struggling,please reach out to:– Butabika National Referral Hospital: +256 414 504 376– Mental Health Uganda: +256 414 541 288– Uganda Counselling Association: +256 703 063 374Additionally, government, human resource professionals, and other wellness expertsshould create space for dialogue to strengthen the policies, practices, anddevelopment of a culture of wellness.Let us make every day a day for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.Your life matters. Your story matters. And together, we can write a brighter chapterfor mental health in Uganda.Flavia Lwanga is the Human Resource Director at Airtel Ugandahttps://www.ugbulletin.co.ug/illuminating-hope-our-collective-journey-towards-mental-wellness/
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Ugandan Citizen Abducted, Held in Secret Detention for Three Months, Sparks Outrage and Calls for Justice
A disturbing new case of unlawful detention has surfaced, highlighting the ongoing human rights crisis in Uganda. A Ugandan citizen was reportedly abducted and held in a secret facility, known as a “safe house,” for three months, only to be released without charge or explanation. This incident, reported by NTV Uganda, has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for accountability regarding human rights abuses in the country.
While the details surrounding the abduction remain unclear, reports indicate that the individual was taken without due process and held incommunicado—an action that has long been condemned by human rights organizations. The victim’s release, with no charges filed and no clear justification, has angered activists and citizens, who view this as yet another case of egregious abuse of power by the state.
“This is a recurring pattern,” said one human rights activist. “Abductions, secret detentions, and unexplained releases have become all too common in Uganda. These acts violate fundamental human rights and erode public trust in the justice system.”
The use of “safe houses,” unregistered detention facilities reportedly operated by security forces, has been a focal point in numerous allegations of torture and illegal imprisonment. Despite repeated calls from both local and international organizations for their closure and accountability for those involved, little action has been taken to address these violations.
This case underscores the urgent need for reform within Uganda’s security apparatus and greater accountability for human rights abuses. Observers hope that drawing attention to these injustices will spur concrete action to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the protection of basic human rights.
As frustration mounts, calls for both domestic and international pressure to hold the government accountable for such crimes grow louder. “One day, there must be accountability for all these crimes against our people,” stated one social media user, reflecting the sentiments of many Ugandans.
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NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests
National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi has accused Ugandan security forces of using excessive force to disrupt a planned NUP gathering. The allegations were detailed in a statement shared on Twitter, following an event held to honor children of NUP supporters who were killed, disappeared, or detained for their political beliefs.
According to Kyagulanyi, security personnel, under the command of an officer identified as Asiimwe, carried out a preemptive operation early in the morning upon learning of the NUP’s plans. The forces allegedly stormed the premises, arrested workers, and deployed tear gas to disperse those present.
“The criminals under the command of one Asiimwe deployed early morning, arrested our workers, and threw tear gas into our premises. They’ve cordoned off the premises and blocked all people from accessing the place,” Kyagulanyi wrote.
Among those reportedly arrested were Saava Peter, Mudenya Samson, and Turyasingura Samson. Kyagulanyi claimed the detained workers were subjected to beatings and interrogated about their political affiliations, with security operatives labeling them as terrorists.
“These JATT operatives asked the workers who they support politically, branding them terrorists and criminals—their only crime being that they work with us. You can imagine the indignity!” Kyagulanyi lamented.
This incident adds to the growing tension in Uganda’s political climate, where opposition parties frequently accuse the government of stifling dissent. Despite the challenges, Kyagulanyi ended his statement with a message of defiance and optimism, proclaiming, “UGANDA WILL BE FREE.”
NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests
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Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum
Sudan has demanded an official apology from Uganda over “offensive and dangerous” comments made by the chief of Uganda army staff, who threated to invade Khartoum, the Sudan Tribune has reported.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and CDF of the Ugandan army, posted two comments on the X platform on Tuesday in which he threatened “to capture Khartoum” with the support of the US President elect Donald Trump after he takes office. The posts were deleted later.
“The government of Sudan demands and official apology from the Ugandan government for the offensive and dangerous comments of the army commander,” Sudan’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the Sudan Tribune said it has seen.
Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum