In a significant effort to boost mental health care in Uganda, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in partnership with the Uganda National Commission for UNESCO/ICESCO and the Afro Arab Youth Council (AAYC), has donated $7,000 worth of essential equipment and supplies to Butabika National Referral Hospital. The donation aims to enhance the hospital’s ability to provide both general and specialized mental health services, including care for alcohol and drug abuse, psycho-trauma, and child and adolescent mental health.
This support comes at a crucial time, as mental health issues continue to rise across Uganda. The donated items include two brand-new laptops for data management, four 10,000liter water tanks, various solar-powered and rechargeable lighting solutions, and essential household items such as sanitary pads, powdered milk, and cooking supplies.
Dr. Byamah Mutamba, Deputy Executive Director of Butabika Hospital, received the donation on September 9, 2024, on behalf of the hospital. In his remarks, Dr. Mutamba emphasized the growing public burden of mental health issues and the need for a comprehensive approach to address them. “Mental health and related problems are an increasing public burden that requires a holistic approach to tackle,” he said
Dr. Agoi Rosie, Secretary General of the Uganda National Commission for UNESCO/ICESCO, highlighted the broader implications of mental health for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “To achieve all 17 SDGs, the mental state of the individuals involved must be considered. Mental health is crucial; without addressing it, we risk leaving behind those who are most in need,” she said.
“Recent studies show that 22.9% of Ugandan children and 24.2% of adults suffer from mental illnesses. Addressing mental health is not just about individual care but is integral to our overall development goals” Dr. Abbas Agaba, a representative from AAYC.
Some of items donated
The donation coincides with World Suicide Prevention Week, which runs from September 10 each year. This global initiative underscores the commitment to improving mental health services and supporting those affected by mental health issues.
With this generous donation, Butabika Hospital is poised to enhance its mental health services, significantly contributing to the well-being of Uganda’s population and supporting broader goals of mental health and inclusive development