Umukuuka urges Bamasaaba leaders to prioritize mental health programs

Bulambuli, (UG):- The cultural leader of the Bamasaaba, His Royal Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, has urged local leaders to develop and implement mental health programs while supporting individuals struggling with psychological distress. He emphasized that addressing mental health challenges is key to transforming idle populations into active contributors to economic productivity.

Umukuuka Mudoma made these remarks on Saturday, Jan 4, 2025, in Bukambuli at the burial of Captain Israel Bill Manyifu, who died under mysterious circumstances on December 27, 2024.

According to Umukuuka Mudoma, Bugisu region is grappling with a high prevalence of psychological distress, currently estimated at 15.7%. He described this as alarming and highlighted its significant contribution to the region’s high poverty levels.

He called on leaders at all levels to address this critical issue, noting the complex relationship between psychological distress and poverty.

Umukuuka Mudoma also warned that idle youth pose a ticking time bomb if left unattended. He urged the government, particularly those in leadership positions, to prioritize listening to and addressing the concerns of young people.

Capt Mike Mukula, the Vice Chairman of the NRM for Eastern Uganda, who attended the burial as the chief mourner due to his close friendship with the late Manyifu, commended Umukuuka Mudoma for advancing the institution of the Bamasaaba.

Mukula assured attendees of the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the late Manyifu. He also encouraged young people to emulate Manyifu’s virtues of honesty, innovation, and friendliness.

In a related development, Budadiri West MP Nandala Mafabi recently declared an open war against early drinking and gambling in Sironko District. He described these vices as detrimental to the productivity of the region’s youth, the most active segment of the population.

The late Manyifu, the son of former Mbale Municipality Mayor, Richard Kanindo Masaba was a pilot in the Office of the President, having previously worked with Parliament and served as an aide to Captain Mike Mukula.