The Ministry of Health, together with the health department of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), has held a press conference at the ministry headquarters in Wandegeya, Kampala to inform artistes of plans to sensitise them about mental health issues, starting this May.

Dr Hafsa Lukwata, the head of the mental health programme, who represented the health ministry, advised artistes against being ashamed of having mental health challenges.

She revealed that the Government and a mental health non-government organisation - Life Back Foundation - have joined hands to support the artistes facing mental health challenges.

"We know what you are going through and some of you are shy about going to Butabika Hospital (government mental health national referral hospital). You should visit Life Back for help because we have partnered with them," Lukwata said at the press conference on April 30, 2024.

Dr. Edward Sempira, the executive director of Life Back Foundation, which partnered with UNMF, said they plan to start sensitising artistes about mental health at Allure Hotel and Suites in Mutundwe, Wakiso on May 14, 2024. UNMF often has jam sessions at the hotel.

"We have decided to give the artistes services at half price because those artistes facing mental illness cannot afford the treatment and they have a problem with public hospitals because they fear stigma. They assume that everyone who goes to public mental health places will think they are mad and that has been forcing them to become isolated,” Ssempijja said.

A number of musicians under UNMF attended the press conference, including Yoyo, Ray Signature, Ziza Bafana, Dr Propa and Zulanda.

Besides singers Jackie Chandiru and Quite Kaye, singer Dr Propa also revealed that  he had been batling mental health issues.