Mental health challenges are increasingly becoming a major concern in Rwanda and globally. A new study by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) shows that young people aged 14–18 are exhibiting alarming levels of mental health symptoms, a trend that is worrying parents, health institutions, and educators. Experts affirm that everyone has mental health, and it can be affected regardless of age, background, or economic status.
Professionals who support individuals with mental health problems report that many of them struggle with the consequences of family conflicts. Marital conflicts are compared to a tree with deep roots and numerous branches, indicating that such disputes often extend their impact to children. If the root causes are not addressed, the effects spread into the next generation.
A child raised in a family filled with conflict may carry these patterns into their future relationships, experience poor academic performance, lose self-confidence, and lack emotional security. This highlights the family as the foundation of positive mental well-being.
One of the major barriers to healing in Rwanda is the culture of silence. Historian Terance Muhirwa explains that Rwandan culture places a strong emphasis on secrecy and hiding personal struggles.
He notes, “The Rwandan family is one that keeps secrets. Not speaking about problems forces individuals to deal with emotional burdens alone, which often leads to overwhelming stress and mental health issues.”
He adds that statistics from health and security institutions show rising cases of trauma, anxiety, and stress disorders, partly fueled by this culture of silence.
Civil Society also plays an important role in addressing mental health concerns. Mutangana Fabien, President of the Civil Society in Huye District, says they often support people dealing with deep emotional wounds caused by family history, gender-based violence, and stigma toward young women who give birth at home.
He gives his personal example:“I used to drink heavily just so I could sleep. I had no one to talk to about my problems. I spent many years unaware that I had a mental health issue, but now it has been over 20 years since I recovered.”
“VUGA UKIRE” (Speak and Heal) is a healing and storytelling initiative that continues to transform lives. Nakabonye Dative, founder of Family Circle Love Lab and the VUGA UKIRE program, notes that many Rwandans suffer silently and urgently need safe spaces where they can express their pain.
She also points out that some Rwandans living abroad struggle with mental illnesses rooted in experiences from Rwanda.
She shares a powerful example:“There was a child who had been raped by a step-uncle but never reported it. It only came to light during medical tests, which revealed multiple infections, including HIV.”
The VUGA UKIRE program encourages openness as a way to prevent long-term mental health consequences. So far, they have supported over 1,500 people, mostly young mothers rejected by their families. Mental health issues are also evident in schools, where many challenges stem from problems within the home.
School leaders report that students facing mental health struggles often come from families with conflict, which results in declining academic performance, emotional instability, and loss of confidence.
Sister Nyirahukuku Philomène, head of Petit Virgo Fidelis Karubanda School, calls for qualified mental health professionals in schools, stating that teachers alone cannot handle both teaching and counseling responsibilities. Religious institutions also play a role. Father Venuste Nzeyimana acknowledges that some people flock to churches hoping their problems will disappear, but he cautions that faith alone is not always enough.
He says, “God gave us wisdom. People must seek help from the right places instead of assuming that prayer alone will solve everything.”
He adds that some people even fall into economic hardship because they rely on churches that do not support their everyday needs. Researchers recommend that churches and religious organizations allocate time to raise awareness about mental health, encourage people to seek treatment, and normalize speaking out. There is also a need to empower youth and parents to prioritize mental well-being.
Dr. Charles Kalinganire, a lecturer and researcher at the University of Rwanda, emphasizes strengthening mental health education among young people and families. He urges men not to suppress women, calls on youth to serve as ambassadors for mental health awareness, and stresses that the family remains central to a healthy society. Studies show that in any group of four people, at least one is living with a mental health issue.
In Rwanda, young people are the most affected group, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen families, eliminate the culture of silence, seek help early, and promote advocacy and community education.
Mental health is not for a select few, it concerns everyone. Since it affects people differently, Rwanda must continue investing in building resilient families and communities to reduce the risk of mental health problems.
