13th October 2026, With support from Watoto Ministries, Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital strengthened its rehabilitation services with the commissioning of the new Hope Sports Arena, featuring a football pitch and a basketball court to support the recovery and well-being of patients.
The facility was commissioned by the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi. The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration in improving mental health care and creating opportunities for patients to participate in physical activities as part of their recovery journey.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Baryomunsi emphasized the role of physical exercise in mental health treatment, stating, “Physical activity is part of the therapy patients need to recover.”
The arena is expected to provide patients with opportunities to engage in sports, improve their physical health, build social connections and develop skills that support their return to their communities.
Dr. Juliet Nakku, Executive Director Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, said the facility would play an important role in preparing patients for reintegration into their communities.
Dr. Nakku also highlighted the importance of physical activity in preventing non-communicable diseases, including obesity, among patients.
“Some mental health conditions can make patients less physically active, while certain medications may contribute to weight gain. The sports arena will therefore help patients remain active and reduce the risk of obesity and other related health complications,” she said.
Dr. Alamo-Talisuna commended the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Butabika Hospital for their commitment to sustaining the program, including mobilizing additional resources. She also recognized the contributions of implementing partners in establishing and scaling the service.
“Today’s event is more than symbolic it marks the transfer of a fully functioning program into Uganda’s national health system,” she added.
Dr Stella Alamo-Talisuna, Associate Director for Programs at CDC Uganda
As part of the transition, a comprehensive package of assets, systems, and human resources were handed over to Butabika Hospital. These include a refurbished clinic designed for safe and confidential care, a mobile OAT dispensing van to support outreach services such as those at Kisenyi Health Centre IV, and an automated methadone dispensing unit to ensure accurate and safe dosing.
The handover also included essential medical equipment, clinical protocols, training materials, monitoring tools, and a team of ten specialized health workers comprising clinicians, counselors, pharmacists, and records staff who will now be fully integrated into the hospital system.
Dr Juliet Nakku, Executive Director of Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, described the transition as a critical step toward sustainability.
“This transition represents a significant step in strengthening Uganda’s health system and ensuring the sustainability of this life-changing service,” she said.
She highlighted the program’s impact, noting that out of 928 patients enrolled since inception, more than 300 have successfully recovered.
“Many have been reintegrated into their families and communities, some have returned to work after receiving skills training, and others have stopped drug use and been gradually weaned off methadone,” Dr. Nakku added.
The integration of OAT services into the national health system reflects Uganda’s commitment to scaling evidence-based interventions that address both substance use disorders and HIV, ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing comprehensive care.
Dr Juliet Nakku, Executive Director Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital speaking
