Kisubi Hospital has called for a fundamental rethinking of mental healthcare, urging that mental health be recognized not only as a psychological concern but also as a critical pillar in preventing some of the country’s most serious physical illnesses, including cardiovascular disease.
The call was made during the 4th Mental Health Camp held at the Parliament of Uganda on 8th and 9th July 2026, an advocacy platform that brought together legislators, healthcare professionals, development partners, civil society organizations and mental health champions to discuss practical ways of strengthening mental health awareness, policy, partnerships and support systems across Uganda. The event was presided over by The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Speaker, and Jacob Marksons Oboth.
As one of the participating healthcare institutions, Kisubi Hospital contributed to the national conversation through expert presentations and thought leadership, reaffirming its commitment to advancing holistic healthcare where mental wellbeing is treated as an integral component of overall health.
One of the key highlights of the hospital’s participation was a presentation on “Integrating Mental Health into Primary Healthcare,” delivered by Mr. Brian Lwingirya, Head of Mental Health and Psychosocial Services at Kisubi Hospital.
In his presentation, Lwingirya emphasized that mental health should no longer exist as a standalone specialty but should become an essential component of primary healthcare delivery. He noted that integrating mental health services into everyday healthcare enables earlier identification of mental health challenges, improves access to care, reduces stigma and ultimately leads to better health outcomes for individuals and communities.
His presentation reinforced the need for stronger collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers and institutions to ensure mental healthcare becomes accessible wherever people seek routine medical services.
Complementing this message, Mr. Belguin Prosper Lumu, Head of Business Development at Kisubi Hospital, reflected on why the hospital considered its participation in the national advocacy initiative so important.
“Mental health is no longer just a conversation about the mind; it is a conversation about life itself,” Mr. Lumu said.
Mr. Belguin Prosper Lumu explained that evidence continues to demonstrate a growing relationship between mental wellbeing and cardiovascular health, making mental health one of the most important conversations in modern healthcare.
“For far too long, we have treated mental health as though it only affects our thoughts and emotions. The reality is far more serious. Deteriorating mental health is increasingly becoming a major risk factor for heart disease. Chronic stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions place immense strain on the cardiovascular system, often leading to life-threatening complications if left unaddressed.”
Drawing on Kisubi Hospital’s experience in managing cardiovascular conditions, Mr. Lumu Prosper noted that the connection between emotional wellbeing and physical health has become increasingly evident in modern medicine.
“Every time we protect someone’s mental wellbeing, we are also protecting their heart, their physical health, their productivity and ultimately their future.”
Mr. Lumu further explained that Kisubi Hospital’s partnership with the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health reflects the institution’s commitment to addressing health challenges through prevention, awareness and collaboration.
“Our experience in managing countless heart conditions has reinforced a truth we can no longer ignore: the heart and the mind are deeply connected. That is why our partnership with the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health is far more than collaboration – it reflects our commitment to addressing heart disease at its roots, not just its symptoms.
