International Mental Health Day
By Nicodemus Mutunga, SJ
Mental health—what is it? Is it being insane? Am I mentally ill? Is it madness? These are some of the questions that come to mind when many of us hear about mental health. Mental health refers to the state of our mind at any given moment. It encompasses an individual’s psychological, emotional, and social well-being, which includes how we feel, act, relate to others, and handle situations such as stress and decision-making. Mental health is an integral part of our human experience, affecting all our behaviours and encounters.
As the world marked International Mental Health Day, the JRS family in Maban played a crucial role as the lead partner in raising awareness and coordinating the celebration of mental health matters. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) is one of the key programs run by JRS in Maban, both in the refugee camps and in the host community. The 10th of October was marked by a large celebration, which was led by Fr. Bill O’Neil, SJ. The day began with plays, dances, poems, and various presentations, culminating in a moving speech by Fr. Bill. This week, JRS has conducted Mental Health Day celebrations in all three camps and the host community.
Inclusiveness for Persons with Disabilities
On the same day, Fr. Bill also launched a project focused on disability and inclusive education. Disability is often used as a basis for excluding people and diminishing their dignity. Maban, both in the refugee camps and in the host community, has a significant number of people with disabilities, many of whom are children. These children face difficulties not only in accessing inclusive education but also in receiving equal treatment within their homes. This new project aims to raise awareness and create an inclusive environment for all persons with disabilities.
According to JRS data base Maban county has over 700 persons with disability some of which have not yet been screened as the areas are unreachable or hidden in their homes. Under the inclusive education in schools JRS has already screened about 80 pupils with more to yet to be screened. Fr. Bill went around to all the camps, listening to the stories of those living with disabilities, offering them hope and encouragement, and distributing various assistive devices. These included walking frames, crutches, commode toilet chairs, and other devices that support people with disabilities. On Friday morning, Fr. Bill also held a session with all JRS staff in Maban to remind them of the importance of Mission and Identity, which are at the core of JRS’s mission.
St. Comboni Day
It is hard to discuss faith, especially Catholicism and education, without focusing on the foundations laid by St. Daniel Comboni. He is well-known across Central and East Africa, particularly in Sudan and South Sudan. Born in 1831 in Italy and living for 50 years, his legacy is deeply etched in the hearts of many due to the impact of his missionary work. In most parts of Sudan and South Sudan, one will quickly notice that many schools are called “Comboni schools,” and many priests are referred to as “Comboni priests.” This clearly shows how deeply his zeal took root, even 141 years since his passing in Khartoum.
Maban is one of the regions where Comboni’s labor and sacrifice still bear fruit. Christians, as well as people of other faiths, commemorate his legacy on October 10th. Here in Maban, the celebrations were marked by a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Abuna Meela. In his homily, he emphasized to the congregation the importance of education, which was central to Comboni’s missionary work. After the Mass, the congregation gathered to share in a joyful celebration featuring dances and various presentations.
