Recent suicide and violence incidents in Mbale City have shaken parents, teachers and education stakeholders, raising urgent questions about students’ emotional wellbeing.
The tragedies include the death of Catherine Nelima, 16, a Senior Three student at Mbale High School on June 9, 2026, and Vanisa Namakoye, 19, a Senior Five student at Mbale Progressive Secondary School on June 11, 2026. Last week, 14-year-old Catherine Nasobye of St Mary’s College was hospitalized after reportedly taking an overdose. Her father Joel Mwando said: ‘I was shocked. She is still a young girl who should be focusing on school. We are still trying to find answers.’
Police say 14 student cases linked to suspected suicide attempts and mental health emergencies have been reported this year. The crisis comes amid rising reports of drug use and student gangs. On July 28, 2025, Shafik Wasike, 19, a Senior Four student at Mbale High, was stabbed to death in an altercation linked to gang rivalries.
Students and investigators describe marijuana, khat and stronger drugs being smuggled into schools by boda boda riders and dealers operating near school fences. Bugisu Cultural Institution spokesperson Steven Masiga said gang activity is now highly organized: ‘Our recent findings reveal that 98% of school gang members in the city are actively using drugs and other prohibited narcotic substances. The threat is real, and the consequences are unfolding before our eyes.’ He added that gangs use oaths, rituals and intimidation, with many members from broken homes.
Religious leaders and educators say schools are under pressure to balance academics with student welfare. Mr Rahim Mujuma, a parent, noted: ‘Teachers are focusing on assessments and competencies under the curriculum, but many learners are dealing with emotional stress, peer pressure, and personal challenges that are not always identified early.’
Fr. Joseph Chebet of St Austin Catholic Church argued for spiritual support: ‘The new curriculum should have been designed to include the religious aspect since teachers spend less time with students than before… most of them indulge in bad acts which later ruin their lives.’ Pastor Alfred Namutolo of Life Ministries said: ‘When students are going through difficult moments, spiritual and moral support helps build resilience and hope.’ Hajj Abdurahman Moni from the Muslim community added: ‘Children today face many pressures. Some students are going through a lot but do not open up.’
Counselor Caroline Asiimwe stressed holistic care: ‘Good wellbeing enables one to handle stress, build positive relationships, and engage in learning. A lack of support from staff can make students hesitant to seek help.’
Some students say they no longer trust school staff for help. Hassan Hakia, Senior Five at Mbale Progressive, said: ‘We are forced to search for help because senior women and male teachers no longer help; they act as spies and mediators between learners and administrations, which scares us from seeking help from them.’
In response, Elgon Region police spokesperson Mr Rogers Taitika said police have launched school sensitization campaigns and urged students to report problems early: ‘When you commit a crime, you will be held accountable as a person, not as a school. Report problems before they escalate and seek guidance from teachers and parents.’
Curriculum specialist Mr Ahamadah Wakhweya blamed systemic gaps: ‘Our previous education system focused too much on passing exams and ignored the values of education. That’s why today we have many graduates who are corrupt, shameless, and unethical.’
Schools, families, faith leaders and counselors now agree: without stronger mental health resources and trusted support systems, academic goals alone won’t protect Mbale’s learners.