Jokate Mwegelo Appointed Mental Health Ambassador

The Secretary-General of the Youth League of the Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) – National, Jokate Urban Mwegelo, has been appointed as an ambassador to raise awareness about mental health by the National Mental Health Hospital, Mirembe. This unique honor was bestowed upon her in Dodoma, with her duties including helping to spread knowledge about mental health issues, particularly among the youth.

This ambassadorship was awarded after Jokate received an invitation to visit Mirembe Hospital. During her visit, she had the opportunity to learn in-depth about the mental health challenges faced by employees in various offices, other individuals in their daily pursuits, youth, and women after childbirth.

Jokate expressed her gratitude and joy for this honor given to her by Mirembe Hospital. She stated, “Mental health is a sensitive issue that has been neglected for a long time. It is crucial for us to have adequate education to help our communities, especially the youth who face numerous challenges in their daily lives.”

At the event, the Director of Mirembe Hospital, Dr. Grace Ngonyani, said that Jokate Mwegelo is the right choice for this role due to her significant contributions to society and her influence on young people. “We recognize Jokate’s ability to mobilize and educate the youth. We hope that through this ambassadorship, we will successfully convey our message to a larger audience and help improve mental health in the country,” said Dr. Ngonyani.

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The National Mental Health Hospital, Mirembe, is renowned for its excellent mental health services. Dr. Ngonyani explained that mental health issues have been increasing rapidly, especially among the youth. “Mental health problems affect many people, from office workers, and youth facing life pressures, to women experiencing changes after childbirth. We need to take urgent steps to address this issue,” she added.

In her speech, Jokate outlined that she would use her role as an ambassador to run various campaigns to educate the public about mental health. She proposed using social media, public meetings, and special seminars for the youth to spread this message more widely. “I will ensure that mental health education reaches rural areas where people often lack access to accurate information about these issues,” Jokate said.

Additionally, Jokate urged government leaders, non-governmental organizations, and health stakeholders to closely collaborate in mental health awareness campaigns. She emphasized the importance of having a robust system to provide support for people dealing with mental health issues. “We need to have a network of mental health services that reaches every corner of the country. This will greatly help reduce the burden of mental health disorders,” she added.

Jokate Mwegelo’s appointment as a mental health ambassador is a crucial step in the efforts to combat mental health challenges in Tanzania. It is the hope of many that through her efforts and collaboration with various stakeholders, mental health education and services will improve, thereby contributing to sustainable development for the entire community.

This shows  sheds new light on the fight against mental health challenges and is expected to bring positive changes in the understanding and provision of mental health services in the country.