Unveiling the Impact: Award-Winning Contributions of Rev. Fr. Samuel Okidi Mwaka, the Director PACTA and Mr. Mark Otim in Substance Abuse Recovery

Rev. Fr. Samuel, the Director (Right) & Mr. Mark (Left) Joyously Showcase their certificate of Merit from the Director's Office at PACTA)

In an extraordinary display of dedication and resilience, the recent Mental Health Sport Gala at Bar Pece War-memorial Stadium in Gulu, Northern Uganda, gathered a crowd of enthusiastic supporters to honor key contributors to mental health advocacy. This inspiring event, organized by the Gracy Minds Empowerment Initiative, celebrated two outstanding individuals: Fr. Samuel Okidi Mwaka, director and founder of PACTA Uganda, and Mr. Mark Otim, a survivor, beneficiary of PACTA's recovery program, and staff member at PACTA. Their achievements demonstrate the power of perseverance and underscore the vital role of support systems in mental health.

Fr. Samuel, the Director joyfully showcase the Certificate of Merit

The Gala honoured exceptional women and men who have made significant contributions to the community through their mental health recovery. Under the theme “Championing Youth Resilience,” the first edition of the Gulu City Mental Health Sports Gala was held on Saturday, 7th December 2024, at Pece War Memorial Stadium, Gulu.

Fr. Samuel Okidi Mwaka was recognized for his exceptional work in substance abuse and mental health recovery through PACTA Uganda. His initiatives have supported over 500 individuals in their recovery journeys in the past year. Fr. Mwaka's holistic approach combines spiritual guidance, community support, and practical skills to foster a nurturing environment for recovery.

Mark Otim displays the medal and certificate of Merit

Mr. Mark's journey exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and community support. Once struggling with substance abuse, he transformed his life with dedicated resources and a supportive recovery community. Now, he plays a crucial role at PACTA Uganda, engaging in outreach to reduce stigma and promote mental health. Mark shares his experience in community forums and schools, proving recovery is possible. His story has inspired over 30 individuals to seek help and join recovery programs recently. His reputability helps others see that life can regain its brightness after addiction.

The acknowledgement of Fr. Mwaka and Mr. Otim emphasizes the vital role community support plays in combating mental health challenges and substance abuse. Individuals dealing with addiction frequently experience isolation and stigma. Fostering an environment of empathy and comprehension can change lives.

PACTA Uganda offers essential resources that enable individuals by celebrating successes and sharing stories of recovery, these programs effectively combat the stigma associated with mental health.

In a world often blind to the struggles of those with mental health challenges, the impactful journeys of Fr. Mwaka and Mr. Otim spark hope. Their commitment to support systems illustrates that with the right help, recovery is not just a dream; it can indeed be a reality.