Munyonyo — Her Royal Highness the Nnaabagereka (Queen) of Buganda Kingdom, Sylvia Nagginda, on Friday evening spearheaded a powerful call to action on women’s mental health at the elegant Queen’s Ball 2025 held at Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo.
Themed “Healing Minds,” the evening brought together kingdom leaders, mental health advocates, artists, and youth to raise awareness and support for mental wellness in Uganda.
“This night of elegance and purpose calls us to forge sustainable commitments within our communities,” Queen Nagginda said during her keynote address. “Many of our people with mental disabilities are afraid to talk about and confess this problem, but we can give them hope by working together to end this situation.”
She shared her recent visit to Butabika Hospital, Uganda’s national mental referral facility, as a sign of solidarity: “I went to Butabika Hospital to learn more and to stand with those who dedicate themselves to healing others and with those undergoing treatment.”
The Queen’s Ball, organised by the Nnaabagereka Nagginda Women’s Fund, is part of the broader campaign to break the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for women and young people.
“As we raise awareness, we must also raise compassion,” Queen Nagginda concluded. “Together, we can build a society where mental well-being is a shared priority.”
Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga praised the Nnaabagereka for championing the cause. “Many of our people continue to face numerous challenges that compromise mental well-being. A collective effort is essential to heal minds and foster peace and harmony within our communities.”
He further emphasised the social drivers of mental distress, stating, “Mental disorders are sometimes caused by circumstances such as lack of money, lack of friends, lack of jobs, and others with bad hearts. If our thought processes are conditioned by hardship, it can lead to mental illness.”
“Some people speak without filtering their words, perhaps because they are struggling with problems in their minds,” he added, urging empathy and societal support.
Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, Minister of Information in the Buganda Kingdom, warned about increasing drug abuse among youth, citing rising admissions at Butabika Hospital. “Some university students now hide drugs in cookies and cakes. We must pay attention to these habits and protect our young people,” he said.
The event also spotlighted the voices of Uganda’s youth, with over 200 young participants, aged 8 to 23, submitting essays on mental health. Winners from each age category walked away with UGX 3 million in school fees support.
“Caring for our minds is just as important as caring for our bodies,” one of the essay winners remarked, drawing applause.
The evening was not only reflective but also uplifting, with soulful live performances including a standout act by Ugandan star Azawi, adding rhythm and inspiration to the message of healing and hope.
Delegates, ministers, and community leaders were recognised for their unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy, and the Nnaabagereka reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to driving positive change.
