“Men Talk” Mental Health Series launched by World Health Organization Uganda
Kampala/ Uganda In a significant move towards tackling the often-overlooked issue of men’s mental health, WHO Uganda has launched the “Men Talk” series — a set of confidential, peer-led discussion sessions aimed at breaking down emotional stigma, and encouraging open conversations among men around identity, financial stress and psychological wellbeing.
What’s happening
The series has kicked off with two sessions so far:
“A man and his identity: What determines your worth?”
“A man and his finances” — exploring the emotional toll of economic responsibility.
Participation has been strong: many male participants report that the sessions helped them reflect and connect in ways previously unavailable.
The initiative is timely — globally there’s growing recognition that men often face unique and unspoken mental-health pressures, yet services are less tailored to them.
Why it matters for Uganda
Uganda’s societal norms often expect men to be stoic, resilient, and emotionally unflappable — meaning mental-health challenges may go unspoken or untreated.
By creating safe spaces tailored for men, the Men Talk series may help reduce stigma, improve early-intervention, and enhance overall mental-health outcomes.
Employers, community groups, and health-providers may now find a model to engage men more proactively in mental health.
What to watch
Whether the series expands into other regions outside Kampala and includes younger men, rural men, and men in informal sectors.
If follow-up data is collected to measure impact (reduced depression, improved productivity, increased help-seeking).
Whether the Ministry of Health and private sector adopt similar programmes or integrate them into corporate wellness.
