Uganda's music industry takes a stand on mental health

In a harmonious effort to break the silence surrounding mental health in Uganda's vibrant music industry, the Uganda National Musician’s Federation (UNMF) has orchestrated a ground-breaking campaign under the theme of "Empowering Minds." As the world delves into Mental Health Month, the UNMF's initiative seeks to amplify awareness, foster understanding, and offer support to those grappling with mental health challenges within the realm of music.

Martin Nkoyoyo, a renowned musician known by his stage name "Yoyo," serves as a representative for the UNMF. He explains the federation's role: "We function as an umbrella body, uniting all music-related associations in Uganda under a common purpose." This time, the common cause is mental health. The "Empowering Minds" event, scheduled for May 14th at the Alure Hotel Mutundwe, aims to be a turning point by bringing music and mental health together to spark positive change.

Singer, Martin Nkoyooyo, a.k.a Yoyo, stresses a point during the engagement

"The event will raise awareness about mental health issues plaguing our music industry, including depression, anxiety, and drug and substance abuse," Nkoyoyo emphasises.

The demanding schedules, the sting of online harassment, and the constant pressure to perform all contribute to a significant mental health burden for Ugandan music artists. “Other servants have maternity leave, but a musician has no work leave; even when they are pregnant, they turn up to work,” Nkoyoyo lamented.

Recognising this urgency, the UNMF sought collaboration. "We understand that we cannot tackle this alone. The UNMF reached out to the Ministry of Health for their technical expertise to design targeted interventions and support mechanisms to effectively address these challenges," Nkoyoyo adds.

Dr. Hafuswa Lukwata, the Assistant Commissioner of Mental Health, expressed her delight at this initiative. "It's truly heartwarming to see everyday people like musicians taking mental health seriously," she shared. "Mental health struggles are universal. Musicians, politicians, media personalities, civil servants—we all grapple with them, but there's a huge stigma around speaking up. With musicians taking the lead and talking openly about it, I am confident the message will resonate with a vast audience."

Dr. Lukwata further highlighted the mental health toll of the recent pandemic. "During and after COVID, many people suffered breakdowns but kept them bottled up. They turned to drugs and substances, even resorting to cannabis tea as a supposed preventative measure, only to fall into addiction," she explained. She expressed particular concern for the younger generation, who are easy targets for the drug industry. "They are at a vulnerable, experimental age," she noted. "The drug industry knows this and preys on young people, seeing them as future customers."

The conversation around mental health and addiction becomes even more critical when considering the role model status that many musicians hold. "Artists are looked up to by the youth, but unfortunately, they themselves struggle with substance abuse," Dr. Lukwata acknowledged. "It's commendable that they're stepping forward to speak about mental health. This message will undoubtedly have a significant impact on those who see them as idols."

Edward Ssempira, the Executive Director of Life Back Foundation Center, a rehabilitation facility for those battling substance abuse, echoed Dr. Lukwata's sentiments. "We are joining forces with the UNMF to raise public awareness about mental health and offer support to music artists struggling in silence," Ssempira pledged. "Confidentiality is paramount. We won't disclose identities, but we'll ensure they receive the help they need. Life Back Foundation Centre has already helped a number of artists, and we're here for them—any artist struggling, please don't suffer in silence. Seek help."

Ssempira painted a stark picture of the pervasiveness of drugs, even in schools, where students are lured in with attractive edibles like cakes and cookies. He revealed the disturbing reality of music artists becoming dependent on drugs like ice, crack, heroin, and marijuana.

Agaba Ezra, an executive on the UNMF committee, shed light on the rationale behind establishing a mental health department within the federation. "Our aim is to create a safe space, free from judgement, for artists battling drug abuse," he shared. "We, as music artists, need a place to heal together without fear of being ostracized. But we can't do this alone."

Dr. Propa, a well-known musician who has openly shared his struggles with mental illness, added his voice to the conversation. "Mental health is a very real issue," he said. "The world, however, often lacks empathy and resorts to judgment. Many artists have fled to other countries because of the harsh judgements they face at home. Please don't stigmatise us." He concluded by sharing a message of hope: "Since opening up about my struggles with mental illness due to drug abuse, I've received countless messages of thanks from fellow artists. It shows that we're not alone."

The "Empowering Minds" event on May 14th promises to be a landmark occasion. It's a testament to the growing awareness of mental health within Uganda's vibrant music industry. With musicians, mental health professionals, and rehabilitation centres joining forces, the event has the potential to create a ripple effect. It can not only provide support for struggling artists but also dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness. The message is clear: It's okay to not be okay, and help is available. By using their platforms and sharing their stories, Ugandan musicians are taking a stand for their own well-being and inspiring positive change within their community. As the music industry embraces mental health awareness, the future looks promising.