About Us
Global Mental Health Alliance (GMHA) is a registered NGO founded in 2008 in response to the deep psychological wounds left by conflict and displacement in northern Uganda.
Originally known as I Live Again Uganda, we have grown into a broader alliance - partnering with faith communities, local organisations, and international supporters to provide trauma-informed, culturally sensitive mental health care.
healing is possible, and Hope can be Restored
At the heart of our work is a simple belief:
Our Story
GMHA was born out of the realities of war and its lasting impact on individuals, families, and entire communities. While conflict may end, its emotional, psychological, and social effects often remain for generations. In response, we began walking alongside those affected - not only to provide support, but to restore dignity, strengthen resilience, and help people rebuild their lives. Over time, this work has grown into a wider movement of care, training, and community-based mental health support across Uganda and beyond.
Our greatest strength is the hope we have found and now share with others.
Many of our staff are survivors of war and displacement who, through faith, have experienced healing and restoration. Today, they serve others from that place of lived hope - combining personal experience, professional training, and deep compassion. They are not only caregivers, but witnesses that healing is possible, walking alongside others as they rebuild their lives and rediscover hope.
Uniquely positioned in Uganda -
home to Africa’s largest refugee population -
our team brings lived experience of war,
healing, and hope, and is ready to walk
alongside others today.
Our Vision
A world where mental health is a priority, enabling everyone to heal from trauma and thrive in a resilient, peaceful community.
Our Mission
To restore hope and bring healing by providing culturally sensitive, Christ-centered psychosocial support for refugees and conflict-affected communities, empowering them toward resilience and recovery.
Trusted Partnerships
Dr. Robi Sonderegger
Clinical Psychologist, Australia
EMPOWER Program Development
Family Challenge Charitable Trust
Australia
Program Design Partner
Local Faith Communities
Uganda & Region
Grassroots Implementation
The Visionaries Behind Our Mission
Founders of Global Mental Health Alliance (formerly I Live Again Uganda)
Benson & Ruth Ocen
Founded in 2008 by Ruth and Benson Ocen, the organization was born out of a deep commitment to serve their community and address the impact of years of war.
What started as a small community-based organization has blossomed into a thriving ministry. Benson, trained by clinical psychologist Dr. Robi Sonderegger, established the trauma counseling foundations that continue to guide the Global Mental Health Alliance today.