In a powerful evening that combined glamour with purpose, Hima Cement partnered with the Nnabagerekka Sylvia Nagginda Women’s Fund to champion mental health awareness at the Queen’s Ball 2025. Held under the theme “Healing Minds,” the event brought together dignitaries, youth, and advocates to celebrate progress and push for deeper understanding around mental wellness.
The highlight of the night was a tribute to individuals and organizations making a significant impact in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health across Uganda. In a creative show of youth engagement, over 200 young Ugandans between the ages of 8 and 23 took part in a nationwide mental health writing competition. The top five were each awarded UGX 3 million to support their educational journeys.
Her Royal Highness Nnabagerekka Sylvia Nagginda reiterated her long-standing dedication to mental health advocacy, calling on families and communities to offer support to those facing mental health struggles.
“If someone is battling mental illness, don’t abandon them. Reach out and support them—treatment and professional care are available,” she urged.
Representing Hima Cement, Communications Manager Caroline Kezaabu spoke on the importance of corporate involvement in mental wellness initiatives.
“At Hima Cement, we believe that strong communities are built not just with bricks, but with compassion. Supporting mental health is central to our values of care, dignity, and collective progress,” she said. “Together with the Nnabagerekka Nagginda Women’s Fund, we are working to ensure that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.”
According to the Ministry of Health, approximately 35% of Ugandans are affected by mental health conditions, yet access to care remains critically limited—there are just over one mental health professional per 100,000 people, far below international standards.
Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, Katikkiro of Buganda, addressed the emotional weight of economic and social pressures.
“When people are weighed down by hardship, it affects their mental wellbeing. Some act out or speak harshly because of unresolved struggles in their minds,” he said.
Minister Kazibwe Kitooke highlighted a growing concern over youth substance abuse, noting the increasing number of drug-related admissions at Butabika Hospital.
“Some university students are concealing drugs in food items like cakes and cookies. This trend is alarming, and we must act,” he cautioned.
As the evening came to a close, speakers echoed a unified call for urgent investment in mental health services, better awareness, and safe spaces where Ugandans can talk openly about their mental wellbeing.