Ntungamo, MUST Partner to Tackle Rising Suicide Cases

By Anthony Kushaba

Ntungamo District and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) have launched a joint initiative to curb the alarming rise in suicide cases, linking the crisis to debt, chronic illness, and domestic strife among men and youth.

At a stakeholders’ meeting held at Ankole Resort and Spa on 19th February 2026, experts revealed that Ntungamo consistently ranks among the districts with the highest suicide incidents in South-Western Uganda. Data from 2020 to 2022 shows men and young people are disproportionately affected, often driven by financial distress, persistent health conditions, and family conflicts.

MUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika unveiled a prevention framework designed to translate research into community action. “Suicide is a significant problem globally and in our communities. This project between MUST and Ntungamo District aims to develop a manual based on World Health Organization guidance for suicide prevention. Working with the district health management team, we want to make Ntungamo a model district in suicide prevention,” she said.

Former Vice Chancellor Prof. Celestino Obua emphasized the vulnerability of young people, warning that each life lost represents “unrealized potential” and a threat to Uganda’s future human capital. Clinical psychologist Dr. Herbert Ainamaani added that Ntungamo’s suicide rates are the highest in the region, with access to pesticides, ropes, and cloths identified as key risk factors.

District Health Officer Dr. Amon Bahati confirmed ongoing cases in communities such as Kitwe and Nyabihoko, while keynote speaker Susan Frazier-Kouassi highlighted stigma as a major barrier to prevention. “Suicide is often met with silence, stigma, and shame. Prevention is everyone’s responsibility,” she noted.

Stakeholders agreed that early recognition of warning signs, stronger referral systems, and community engagement are critical to reversing the trend. Plans include expanding mental health services, intensifying awareness campaigns, and reducing stigma to encourage help-seeking behavior.

Authorities warned that if left unchecked, the rising suicide cases could escalate into a serious public health crisis, particularly among men and youth. The Ntungamo–MUST partnership is now positioning the district as a pilot model for suicide prevention in Uganda.