In a magnificient affair at the Kampala Serena Hotel on Thursday, May 9, Sylvia Nagginda, the Queen of Buganda, orchestrated a historic event, the inaugural Queen's Ball 2024.

The event was organised through her The Nabagereka Fund.

The ball, held under the theme Shine a Light, Illuminate Mental Health, not only dazzled attendees with its opulence, but also served as a beacon of hope in raising awareness and crucial funds for mental health initiatives.

May, designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, couldn't have been a more fitting backdrop for this ground-breaking event.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Health and the Uganda Counselling Association, an estimated 14 million Ugandans grapple with various forms of mental disorders.

This translates to a staggering 35 out of every 100 Ugandans battling with mental health challenges, with about 15% of them requiring urgent treatment.

Spearheaded by Suzan Lubega, the board chair of The Nabagereka Fund, the campaign aims to break the suffocating stigma surrounding mental health by fostering open dialogue and encouraging individuals to seek help without fear or shame.

Lubega emphasised that the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the urgent need for robust mental health support systems.

"The Queen's Ball 2024 is not merely a glamorous affair; it's a clarion call to action," declared Nagginda. "Through The Nabagereka Fund, we are committed to channelling resources towards mental health awareness, education, advocacy, and treatment. Our goal is to dismantle barriers, eradicate stigma, and promote mental well-being across our communities."

Dr. Raymond Odokonyero, a psychiatrist, lauded the queen's unwavering dedication to championing mental health causes.

He emphasised that the misconceptions surrounding mental health perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and the queen's involvement signifies a monumental step forward in destigmatising these issues.

"Mental health is not a taboo like people make it seem; it's a pressing public health crisis that demands our immediate attention," remarked Odokonyero.

"With Her Royal Highness leading the charge, Uganda gains a formidable ally in the fight for mental health advocacy."

As the glittering evening unfolded, adorned with elegant gowns and noble aspirations, it became abundantly clear that the Queen's Ball 2024 was not just a celebration of royalty, but a resounding declaration of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Through unity, compassion, and unwavering determination, Uganda marches towards a future where mental health is no longer shrouded in darkness but bathed in the radiant light of understanding and support.