By Norbert Mao
A man in Gulu district has attempted to take his own life following an alleged dispute over family cattle that destroyed his rice garden.
The man has been identified as Okot George, a resident of Loyo Boo Village in Unyama sub-county, Gulu district.
Okot is alleged to have been angry after his paternal uncle reportedly allowed his cattle to enter and eat his rice crop.
On Monday, at around 4 p.m., Okot allegedly went to his damaged rice field and drank a poisonous substance in an attempt to take his own life.
He was, however, found and rushed to Angaya Health Centre III, where he received treatment and was later discharged from the health facility.
The area Local Council One Chairperson Ochora Peter confirmed the incident saying Okot had been returned home and in stable condition.
According to experts, youth in Uganda face a rising mental health crisis driven by severe economic hardships, high unemployment, intense academic pressures, and family breakdowns. These compounding stressors lead to deep psychological distress, which is often worsened by social stigma, peer pressure, and substance abuse.
