Uganda’s mental health stakeholders have announced the 2025 L.I.V.E. (Listen. Include. Validate. Empower) Conference, a national gathering designed to confront the country’s growing youth suicide crisis. Scheduled for September 10, the event will bring together 500 participants, including young people, parents, mental health professionals, educators, faith leaders, and policymakers, to share experiences, challenge stigma, and co-create solutions.
Recent data from 2024 recorded 190 suicide attempts, 59 deaths, and 18 repeat attempts, with experts warning that the true figures are likely far higher due to underreporting, stigma, and a lack of adequate mental health services. Young people are disproportionately affected, a reality that has alarmed professionals and advocates alike.
Organiser Andrew Rugasira said the conference will serve as a starting point for a nationwide conversation about mental health and suicide prevention. “Many young people in our country are struggling with isolation, disconnection, and mental health problems, often leading to suicidal thoughts. According to the World Health Organization, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among youth aged 15–29 globally,” he said. He added that suicide claims around 700,000 lives worldwide each year, more than HIV and war combined and stressed the need for a national suicide prevention strategy that treats suicide as a medical issue rather than a crime.
Psychologist Joan Atuhaire, who works closely with young people, voiced her concern over the growing mental health crisis. “With over 70% of Uganda’s population being young, it’s alarming that so many are struggling with suicidal thoughts. We need to create an environment where it’s okay not to be okay and ensure support systems are in place,” she said, urging government, civil society, and the private sector to combine resources and expertise to respond to the problem.
Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, confirmed the ministry’s engagement with organisers. He said the absence of a national suicide prevention strategy made the conference even more critical. “One challenge we face is the criminalization of attempted suicide, which may deter individuals from seeking help. It’s essential to recognise the signs of suicidal tendencies and provide timely support,” he said.
The conference is expected to produce evidence-based policy recommendations that will be submitted to the Ministry of Health and Parliament within 30 days. Stakeholders hope that this will lay the groundwork for a more proactive, compassionate, and coordinated approach to suicide prevention in Uganda, giving young people the support they need to live and thrive.