National Mental Health Run Seeks to Break Stigma and Raise Resources

What the report says

Uganda’s Ministry of Health is जुटing support from public- and private-sector partners for a national mental health run intended to reduce stigma, raise awareness and help fund mental health infrastructure. According to Nile Post, the event is scheduled for October 11, 2026, at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) Nakawa Grounds under the theme “Run for Your Mind, Break the Silence and the Stigma.”

Health Minister Chris Baryomunsi said the run is meant not only to promote open discussion about mental illness but also to generate resources for priority projects. The article says proceeds will support expansion of the outpatient department at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, including a shelter for patients, and help fund an alcohol and drug abuse unit at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.

The Ministry’s commissioner for non-communicable diseases, Dr. Charles Akiya, said mental health conditions are rising in Uganda and are linked to pressures such as poverty, unemployment, gender-based violence, substance use, school-related stress and displacement. He also noted that services are available at different levels of the health system, but staffing gaps, weak infrastructure, limited medicine supplies and low funding continue to constrain care.

Nile Post reported that officials are calling for a wider, multi-sector response involving communities, civil society and development partners. The planned run is being positioned as both a public awareness campaign and a fundraising effort for treatment and support services.