On a recent special segment on Radio Domus, listeners tuned in for a timely and thought-provoking conversation led by none other than staff members from Consolation East Africa (CEA) i.e Bramwel Waka together with Mildred Nafula. Invited as guest speakers, our team explored a powerful theme: how financial management—or the lack of it—is deeply connected to mental health challenges among young people.
Money Matters, But So Does the Mind
In a society where youth face constant financial pressure—whether through unemployment, social expectations, or unstable family income—our staff highlighted how poor financial management skills can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, shame, and hopelessness.
“When young people are not equipped to manage the little resources they have, the emotional weight can be overwhelming,” noted one CEA representative during the show.
Listeners called and texted in, affirming how relevant this issue is in everyday life. Whether it’s a recent graduate juggling job hunting and rent or a young adult trying to balance family expectations and debt, the need for financial literacy and mental health support is clearer than ever.
What We Shared on Air

CEA staff unpacked the conversation into the following key points:
Financial stress is real and widespread. Many youth suffer in silence when they can’t meet basic needs or social expectations.

Lack of financial planning skills contributes to chronic anxiety. Without budgeting, saving, or goal-setting, young people feel lost and overwhelmed.
Peer pressure and consumer culture worsen the problem. Social media often fuels the need to appear successful, pushing youth into unsustainable spending.
Mental health support and financial education must go hand-in-hand. Teaching money skills without addressing emotional well-being isn’t enough.

CEA’s Holistic Approach:
At CEA, we believe that empowerment must be holistic. That’s why our staff emphasized the importance of integrating:
Financial literacy workshops in youth development programs.
Safe spaces for open discussion around money, mental health, and responsibility.
Community mentorship, involving parents, church leaders, and local institutions.

The conversation on Radio Domus also called for greater collaboration between stakeholders, including civil society, media, and faith-based groups, to build a stronger support system for young people navigating financial and emotional challenges.
Looking Ahead
CEA is proud to have been part of this impactful conversation, and we are committed to turning these discussions into actionable programs. As one of our staff members said on air:
“We must treat financial literacy as a mental health intervention. It’s not just about money—it’s about peace of mind, confidence, and hope.”