By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
In a groundbreaking effort to prioritize mental health, Gracy Minds Empowerment Initiative Uganda launched the 1K Campaign for Mental Health Awareness in Uganda.
Launched on August 11th, 2024, at Legends Rugby Grounds during the first edition of the Mental Health Awareness Football Gala, the 1K Campaign initiative aims to raise funds and support mental health awareness programs among adolescents and youth across Uganda over the next five years.
Grace Obalim Ojara, National Coordinator for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, officiated the launch of the campaign. She was representing the Assistant Commissioner for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Control Dr. Hafsa Lukwata at the launch.
She noted that the initiative aims to mobilize resources and support for mental health awareness programs.
“We are going to ensure that each and every national and local mental health partner in the country receives a box that is representing the 1k Campaign and at the end of 1 year from now, we shall all need another football galla together where we will officially open these boxes and declare how much money we will have been able to collect,” said Grace Obalim Ojara.
The initiative marked a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards mental health awareness.
Accordingly, the campaign will feature community dialogues, school outreaches, TV drama episodes, and mental health podcasts, with annual accountability sessions held every August.
Over 528 people including including mental health agencies, medical organizations, popular Ugandan artists and other stakeholders attended the first edition of Mental Health Awareness Football Gala (MHAFG) at Legends Rugby Lugogo Kampala. The event was organized by Gracy Minds Empowerment Initiative Uganda in partnership with the Football Nation Corporate League, among other partners.
Participants had access to immediate health services, including blood donation and testing, medical consultations, and mental health awareness sessions.
The next edition of the Mental Health Awareness Football Gala is scheduled for August 2025, with Gracy Minds leading the organization in partnership with various mental health organizations.
“This initiative is a crucial step towards breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Uganda,” said Omona Mercy Gracy, Director of Gracy Minds Empowerment Initiative Uganda. “We are committed to raising awareness and supporting mental health programs among adolescents and youth across the country.”
