Background & Rationale for the 2026 Conference

The 2026 International East Africa Psychology Conference builds on over a decade of collaborative work exploring community-based participatory mental health care. In recent years, our focus has centered on the role of families, communities, and culturally grounded practices in shaping mental health outcomes. These conversations have continued to highlight that mental health is shaped within the lived realities of families, communities, and the systems that support them.

Theme: “Access and Equity in Mental Health for All”

As we look toward 2026, our collective sites have identified a critical next step — expanding access and equity in Mental health for all. Across communities, there remain significant gaps in who can access care, how care is delivered, and whose voices are included. These challenges are reflected in rising stress, burnout, interpersonal conflict, and the broader social and economic pressures affecting individuals, families, and communities.

Subthemes:

1. Intergenerational Practices and Family Mental Health
   Exploring how traditional approaches to raising and supporting children can inform modern family systems and promote mental health across generations.
2. Access and Equity in Systems of Care
   Promoting mental health for all through integration within public health, education, and broader systems of care.
3. Traditional and Faith-Based Approaches to Mental Health
   Understanding how cultural, spiritual, and faith-based practices shape mental health care and support wellbeing in communities.
4. Mental Health in the Digital Age
   Examining the role of information technology, including both its benefits and challenges, in shaping mental health outcomes.
5. Disability, Rehabilitation, and Inclusion
   Understanding lived experiences of disability and exploring approaches that improve access, inclusion, and equity in mental health care.
6. Environmental Wellbeing and Mental Health
   Exploring how environmental protection and stewardship contribute to mental health across communities and generations.

Connecting to Global Priorities

This year’s theme also aligns with global efforts to strengthen health systems. The World Health Organization’s 2026 World Health Day theme, “Together for Health. Stand With Science,” calls for collaboration, evidence-informed practice, and equitable access to care. In this spirit, we invite participants to explore how science, community knowledge, and cultural practices can work together to improve mental health outcomes.

Focus Areas for 2026

A key area of focus will be the realities of everyday life, including workplace stress, burnout, and changing social conditions. At the same time, we remain committed to understanding the broader systems that shape mental health, including families, schools, healthcare systems, and community structures. Special attention continues to be given to youth and families.

Call for Contributions

We invite researchers, practitioners, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience to contribute to this dialogue. Submissions may explore topics such as traditional and faith-based practices, integration of mental health into public systems, the role of technology, disability and rehabilitation, environmental influences, and innovative approaches to expanding access and equity. SUBMIT THE ABSTRACT HERE

PARTICIPATION

CONTACT INFORMATION

Dr. Sebastian Ssempijja (UBHA & SFPP): sebastian@sebastianfp.com |
+1 414 247 0801 | Debbi Omondi (SFPP): debbi@sebastianfp.com |
Paul Waluya (UniK): paulwaluya@gmail.com | +256 705 239 998 | +256708092348