In June 2026, the Regional Service Centre Entebbe (RSCE) joined the world in celebrating Men’s Mental Health Month with a series of wellness initiatives aimed at fostering open dialogue, breaking stigma and strengthening a culture of care in the workplace.
Delivered by the Welfare Committee on the UN Campus Entebbe and HR and Talent Management Unit (HRTMU), the activities emphasised the importance of prioritising mental wellbeing particularly among men who often face barriers to expressing their emotional challenges.
One session focused on grief, resilience, and emotional wellbeing highlighting that while professional environments are often fast-paced and demanding, mental health remains a critical pillar of both individual and organizational performance. Participants were encouraged to share experiences and support one another, reinforcing the value of empathy and collective care in navigating difficult moments.
Complementing this, a dedicated awareness session on men’s mental health addressed societal expectations and the pressures of traditional norms that can discourage emotional expression. Facilitators emphasized the need to redefine strength, not as silence, but as openness and the courage to seek support. The discussion highlighted the importance of building psychologically safe workplaces where individuals feel empowered to genuinely show up and participate.
During the session themed Becoming a Positive Role Model, Mr. Samuel A. Bakutana, CEO of Inspired Leaders International encouraged participants to reflect on the depth of their support networks. He asked “Do you have two to three wise and reliable friends that you can call at 2 AM… If the answer is no, it’s time for you to build your capacity concerning your friendships.” This message resonated strongly, highlighting how meaningful relationships are essential to resilience and emotional balance.
The observance of Men’s Mental Health Month also coincided with Father’s Day, offering an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the role of fathers and father figures within the UN Entebbe Campus community. Staff took time to reflect on the importance of positive male role models, acknowledging the balance between professional responsibilities and family life while they enjoyed a specially prepared barbecue. The moment reinforced the message that caring for one’s mental health is essential not only for personal wellbeing, but also for nurturing supportive families and communities.
Through these initiatives, RSCE reaffirmed its commitment to staff wellbeing by promoting openness, inclusion, and mutual support. The observance of Men’s Mental Health Month served not only as a platform for awareness, but also as a call-to-action encouraging individuals to prioritize mental health, access available resources, and contribute to a compassionate workplace culture.
As we move forward, all staff are encouraged to continue these conversations, check in on one another, and make full use of available wellbeing support services because a healthier, more supportive workplace starts with each one of us.
