BUTABIKA: The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, The Most Rev Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has today made his maiden pastoral visit to Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital and called for increased funding and attention to mental healthcare.
During his visit, Archbishop Kaziimba visited different units of the hospital and prayed with the patients. He was taken through different treatment programs offered at the hospital including therapy sessions and spiritual support.
He commended the hospital for embracing a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the importance of addressing all aspects of a person’s well-being.
In his engagements with patients notably those in the Alcohol and Drug Unit, Archbishop Kaziimba commended their resilience and determination to overcome their addiction challenges. He called for unity in combating stigma associated with mental health and addiction to promote a more inclusive society.
As a gesture of support, the Diocese of Kampala, where he is the Bishop, donated 205 blankets to aid the hospital in its efforts to care for patients. He however called upon the government to increase funding for Butabika Hospital, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to quality mental health care and treatment.
He called upon government to increase taxes on alcohol and other narcotics which have caused mental disorders especially in the youths.
Archbishop Kaziimba was accompanied by mission partners; Richard and Racheal Ford from Sharing of Ministries Abroad (SOMA) from Australia; Rev Canon Fredrick Jackson Baalwa, the Archdeacon of Southern Archdeaconry and the Diocese of Kampala’s Treasurer, Mrs. Merab Gaamua.
