The Government, through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, has called on employers to integrate mental health and psychosocial support into workplace safety and health policies.
The appeal was made by the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Esther Anyakun Davinia, while addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.
She emphasized that many employees face workplace challenges that negatively impact their productivity, underscoring the importance of accessible mental health support systems.
Anyakun also urged health workers to prioritize their own wellbeing by seeking help when necessary and actively participating in workplace mental health programs.
Her remarks follow concerns raised by Juliet Nakku, Executive Director of Butabika National Psychiatric Referral Hospital, who reported a 70% increase in mental health cases since 2021.
The surge has been attributed to factors such as unemployment, family breakdown, and financial stress.
The call comes ahead of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which will be commemorated on April 28 at St. Noah Mawaggali Secondary School in Buikwe District.
By Olivia Nabaggala
22nd April 2026
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