3rd March 2026, Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital an accredited DAP training center, successfully conducted its first cohort of the Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC) a significant milestone in advancing the quality of addiction treatment services in Uganda.
This inaugural cohort, which ran from March 23, 2026, to April 3, 2026, represents far more than a training program. It marks a national commitment to building capacity, standardizing care, and professionalizing the field of addiction treatment in Uganda. With a strong emphasis on equipping professionals with evidence-based skills, the initiative underscores the belief that “building skills today” will indeed “transform lives tomorrow.”
The UTC program is globally recognized for strengthening the competencies of addiction professionals, and its introduction at Butabika signals a forward-thinking approach to addressing substance use disorders in Uganda. As highlighted during the training, professionalizing care is the foundation of lasting recovery, and this first cohort is only the beginning of a more skilled and responsive future workforce.
At the closing ceremony, Dr Juliet Nakku, Executive Director of Butabika, encouraged participants to remain actively engaged beyond the training. She emphasized the importance of continuous learning through a community of practice to support learning and information exchange.
Dr. Nakku also urged participants to pursue further training to become accredited providers, noting the urgent need for more qualified personnel to meet the growing demand for addiction care services.
“There are plans to expand the training across the country, reducing the burden of long-distance travel for both professionals and patients seeking care, this decentralization effort is expected to improve accessibility and strengthen regional capacity in addiction treatment.“ She added.
Dr Juliet Nakku, Executive Director Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital
Dr David Basangwa Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Dr David Basangwa also expressed his appreciation to the participants for their commitment and engagement throughout the program. He noted the increasing global awareness of substance use disorders and the importance of addressing them through both prevention and treatment strategies. “Prevention remains key,” he stated, “but when it fails, effective treatment becomes essential.”
Dr. Basangwa commended the participants for their seriousness and dedication, encouraging them to continue their professional development. He advised them to take exams and apply for higher-level training to further enhance the quality of addiction care and strengthen the professional workforce in Uganda.
As Uganda moves forward, the vision remains clear: to “equip more professionals, expand knowledge, and ensure that every person struggling with addiction has access to qualified, compassionate care.” This first UTC cohort stands as a powerful step toward that goal, laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient addiction treatment system nationwide.
