By KT Reporter
Health experts and workers have expressed concern over rising mental health issues in Kampala’s crowded neighborhoods, largely attributed to poor living conditions. The challenges are mainly concentrated among youths in the most congested informal settlements.
Habitat for Humanity reports that at least 60 percent of Kampala dwellers live in informal settlements, while more than 20 percent live in “typical settlements.” While no formal study has been conducted, health and community workers say many of the issues arise from substance abuse, largely due to unemployment and related stresses.
The concerns were raised at Acholi Quarters in Banda, Nakawa Division, where the Rotary Clubs in Kampala, led by the Rotary Club of Kampala-Naalya, were conducting a Mental Health Camp. Charles Owekmeno, Public Health Specialist and President of the Rotary Club of Kampala-Naalya, said that apart from youth, women are increasingly affected due to the stresses of caring for families. He emphasized that the camp aims to sensitize communities about mental health and encourage early medical intervention.
Acholi Quarters is a densely populated settlement, historically home to people displaced by conflict from Northern Uganda. Many residents have no formal employment. Joseph Oloya, Local Council 1 Chairperson for Banda BI, said the 2016 census recorded 22,000 residents, but numbers have likely grown.
While housing has improved from makeshift mud and wattle units, social services remain poor, with limited road access preventing garbage trucks from reaching critical areas. Oloya highlighted the growing mental health problem among residents, many of whom lack access to nearby health facilities.
He explained that traditional sources of income, such as quarry work and crafts, have declined, pushing residents toward substance abuse. While resettlement in northern areas is encouraged, returning residents sometimes face emotional trauma upon encountering graves of loved ones, which can exacerbate mental health issues.
Nakawa Division Health Inspector Janat Kulabako acknowledged the lack of nearby health services, with the closest public facilities several kilometers away at Kiswa in Bugolobi and Naguru Hospital. She welcomed the health camp and called for law enforcement against alcohol and drug abuse in households.
Dr. Joseph Mugisa, Past President of Kampala-Naalya Rotary Club, said stigma around mental illness remains high, with some associating it with witchcraft or avoiding discussion entirely. He called for a multi-sectoral approach to address causes and effects across sectors.
Mugisa added that the Rotary Club plans to establish a centre for adolescents in the area, offering counseling, discussion sessions, skilling, and other public health services starting early next year.
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