Based on research into the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding 'mental health' among medical professionals, traditional healers and faith healers in districs along Lake Victoria, we establish the peacemaking role of the medico-political system creating complementary psychiatries. Institutionalisation (via State and Churches) and standardization (via schools, media and non-governmental projects) are stimulating parallel psychiatries, opposing ritual to medicine, and 'sacralizing' alternative medicine.