especially among children, youth, and families navigating complex social and economic challenges. In Uganda, where many young people face the effects of poverty, violence, and limited access to social services, mental health support is not a luxury, it is a necessity.

As Bantwana Initiative Uganda, we are a leading organization dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children and their caregivers, and have placed mental health at the center of its interventions. Recognizing that emotional resilience and psychological well-being are essential for children to thrive in school, at home, and within their communities, the Initiative has worked to integrate psychosocial support into its broader programs.

To strengthen this effort, Bantwana Initiative Uganda has been working hand-in-hand with Fort Health Mind, a mental health organization that brings technical expertise and practical approaches to community-based care. Together with the Fort Portal team, the partnership has expanded access to mental health awareness, counseling, and referral services for program beneficiaries.

What Has Been Done So Far

• Community Sensitization: Through awareness sessions, families and community leaders are being equipped with knowledge to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations.
• Capacity Building: Staff and community volunteers have received training in basic psychosocial support, enabling them to better identify and respond to children and caregivers showing signs of distress.
• Counseling and Referrals: Beneficiaries have been connected to trained counselors and, when necessary, referred to specialized mental health facilities for further care.
• School-based Support: In collaboration with teachers and school administrators, initiatives have been introduced to create safe spaces where learners can access guidance and psychosocial assistance.

Why It Matters

For many of the children and families supported, mental health services mean more than just treatment, they are a pathway to resilience. When children can cope with trauma, concentrate in class, and build healthy relationships, their chances of breaking cycles of vulnerability improve significantly. Caregivers, too, benefit from the support, gaining tools to manage stress, strengthen family bonds, and nurture the growth of their children.

This collaboration with Fort Health Mind and the Fort Portal team demonstrates the power of partnerships in advancing holistic well-being. Through prioritizing mental health, Bantwana Initiative Uganda continues to ensure that vulnerable children and families are not only surviving, but are also empowered to thrive.