The Nnaabagereka of Buganda Kingdom- Her Royal Highness Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, and the Katikkiro- Charles Peter Mayiga, have called on parents and school-going girls to prioritise mental wellbeing, education and self-worth, warning that a lack of support at home and pressure from romantic relationships can undermine girls’ future prospects.
The call was made on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Bulange, Mengo, during the closing event of the Healing Minds Tour 2026, an initiative organised by the Nnaabagereka Nagginda Women’s Fund (NNWF) in partnership with I&M Bank Uganda Limited, Rhodium Mental Health Specialist Hospital and Nkoba za Mbogo.
The tour, which began in September, engaged students across universities nationwide through discussions aimed at promoting holistic wellbeing, emotional resilience and informed decision-making among young people. The final event attracted hundreds of youth from across the country.
Speaking at the event, the Nnaabagereka emphasised the importance of creating supportive home environments where children feel safe enough to express their concerns and seek guidance when facing difficult experiences.
“Our homes should be a safe place for our children. When home stops being a place of comfort and understanding, some children begin to look for acceptance elsewhere, sometimes falling into peer groups that expose them to further challenges. We must pay attention to what our children are going through, listen to them without judgement and make their mental health a priority,” she said.
She added that many girls silently struggle with emotional and social challenges but lack trusted adults to turn to for advice and support. She urged parents to be more attentive to changes in their children’s behaviour and to create open conversations about the pressures they face at school, among friends and in their personal lives.
The Katikkiro cautioned girls against relationships with older men who use gifts, money and promises of a better life to attract them, urging them to remain focused on their education and long-term independence.
“Some men approach young girls with gifts and promises, making it appear as though they can provide everything they need. But girls must look beyond what is offered in the moment and consider the consequences for their future. What happens when those promises are not fulfilled, or when the person providing for you is no longer there? Your education, knowledge and skills are what will help you stand on your own. Do not trade your future for temporary comfort,” the Katikkiro said.
He encouraged the girls to understand their worth beyond material possessions and external approval, reminding them that the decisions they make while young can shape their opportunities later in life.
I&M Bank Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications- Annette Nakiyaga, highlighted the importance of financial literacy in helping young people make informed decisions and build independent futures. She reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to equipping youth with practical financial skills and accessible banking solutions.
“Financial wellbeing is an important part of overall wellbeing. We want young people to develop good money habits early, learn to save and make informed financial decisions. Through solutions such as our ExpressGO Digital Account, which offers convenient account opening and free bank-to-wallet transfers, we are making it easier for young people to start their banking journey and manage their money,” Nakiyaga said.
The event also featured discussions on mental health, personal development and financial wellbeing, with panellists Dr Martina Kabenge Kalanzi, a psychiatrist from Rhodium Mental Health Specialist Hospital, Dr. Winnie from UNFPA.
The discussions explored the importance of recognising emotional distress, seeking help when necessary and building healthy relationships. The panellists also highlighted the value of self-awareness, positive coping strategies and financial literacy in helping young people navigate personal and social pressures.
The event also recognised winners of the 2026 NNWF National Essay Competition, which attracted young people to reflect on issues affecting their wellbeing, personal growth and future aspirations.
Rebecca Acana Atim, a Senior Five science student at Lira Town College, emerged as the overall winner, receiving Shs3 million. John Mark Okalebo, a Senior Six candidate at St Mary’s College, Kisubi, placed second and received Shs2.5 million, while Yvonne Maria Wanyana, a Primary Five pupil at St Agnes Junior School, Kisugu, took third place, earning Shs2 million.
Faustin Batsotsia Kithende, a Senior Five student at St Henry’s College Kitovu, finished fourth and received Shs1.5 million.
