Ann Ssebunya the Founder Drugs Hapana Initiative (1) (1)

Ann Ssebunya, fondly known as “Ann” is a household name. A celebrated radio personality on Central Broadcasting Service Limited (CBS FM Radio Buganda), her vibrant voice, humour, and storytelling have captivated audiences for years.

Through her signature morning drive show Mukeeze (6–9 am, Monday to Friday), Ann has mastered the art of entertaining and educating listeners on a wide array of social issues.

Listeners often refer to her as the “Ann Buddu Ku ntikko Ambassador” due to her deep knowledge and passionate radio awareness campaigns focusing on Masaka City and its surroundings.

Her metaphor-rich narratives and relatable tone have made her a beloved figure across Uganda, embodying the spirit of grounded, charismatic women role models who inspire through humility and purpose.

Early Life and Passion for Community Empowerment

Born to Mr Charles Ssebunya, former Head teacher at St. Balikuddembe Mitala Maria, and Mrs Margret Ssebunya, both now retired in Senya village in Masaka District, Ann is the second of seven children. She is also a devoted mother to Ryan Kimera Tabula.

Beyond her public persona, she leads a purpose-driven life, committed to mental health advocacy and drug abuse prevention among youth through her initiative: Drugs Hapana (“Say No to Drugs”).

Ann currently balances her radio career with her administrative duties in the office of CBS’s Programs Manager, Hajji Abbey Mukiibi, under the supervision of Dr. Samuel Kazibwe.

Her serene demeanour and warm presence shine through whether she’s on air or off.

The Birth of Drugs Hapana Initiative (DHA)

Ssebunya’s inspiration to start Drugs Hapana Initiative in 2016 stemmed from personal experience.

“Someone in our family was struggling with alcohol. It affected us deeply, but when I realized recovery through rehabilitation was possible, I knew I had to do something for others,” she shares.

Under the mentorship of Dr David Basangwa, former Executive Director of Butabika National Referral Hospital, Drugs Hapana was born. Its mission: to educate young people about drug abuse and promote mental health through school and community outreach, seminars, counselling, music, drama, sports, and vocational training.

A Response to the Growing Crisis

The Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 magnified mental health challenges in Uganda, with school disruptions, isolation, and uncertainty pushing many young people towards drug use.

“More students are abusing drugs and alcohol to cope with depression, anxiety, and lack of structure. Suicidal cases are on the rise, and our rehabilitation centres are overwhelmed,” Ann explains.

She notes that many youths view drug use as a mark of modernity or as part of growing up beliefs compounded by the lack of parental supervision as adults focus on daily survival.

DHA’s Impact and Reach

Since its inception, Drugs Hapana Initiative has partnered with over 200 schools nationwide. Through student leadership conferences, teacher workshops, parenting retreats, and counselling sessions, the initiative has sparked change. Many students report quitting drug use and have even started anti-drug clubs in their schools.

“One student used to hide drugs in his parents’ car; another stuffed them in his socks on the way to school. These stories are real,” Ann recalls.

Commonly abused substances include alcohol, tobacco (cigarettes, shisha, kuber), marijuana, mairungi (khat), aviation fuel, ice, and in wealthier communities, cocaine and heroin.

Despite these challenges, Ann believes that sensitized and empowered youth can become powerful advocates for change.

Strong Networks and Strategic Partnerships

Balancing her radio work with DHA, Ann credits her success to a strong network of partners ranging from media and medical professionals to schools, NGOs, and government bodies. Collaborators include, Butabika National Referral Hospital, CBS FM Radio Buganda, Parliament of Uganda, UNESCO, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, among others.

One of their hallmark projects is the Tuyambeko Butabika Campaign, which mobilized resources for patients at Butabika Hospital.

With support from CBS FM and the public, and 100 mattresses donated by the Parliament of Uganda, the campaign highlighted the power of collective effort in tackling mental health issues.

Looking Ahead

Drugs Hapana Initiative continues to grow launching new prevention programs, hosting community edutainment events, and helping young people acquire vocational skills for self-sustenance.

Ann’s work has reshaped narratives around mental health and drug abuse, providing hope, knowledge, and practical tools for Uganda’s youth to thrive.

As she juggles the demands of broadcasting and activism, Ann Ssebunya remains a shining example of how media influence, when used with compassion and intent, can become a force for national transformation.

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