JULIUS MUHUMUZA

The Assistant Commissioner of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health has commended the work being performed by occupational therapists in Uganda despite the challenge of understaffing.

This was revealed during the commemoration of World Occupational Therapy Day held at Butabika Hospital yesterday.

Uganda joined the globe in commemorating World Occupational Therapy Day and the main event took place at Butabika Hospital

According to the Head of the Occupational Therapy department in Mulago Hospital Francis Ekwanga, there are very few occupational therapists in referral Hospitals in Uganda despite the overwhelming number of people that require occupational therapy services.

Ekwang noted that many Ugandans who require occupational therapy services have not been attended to because of the limited number of occupational therapists citing an example of Mulago Hospital that has only 2 professionals.

Dr. Hafsa Lukwata, the Acting Assistant Commissioner for Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, praised the efforts of occupational therapists in assisting individuals with mental health issues who are reintegrating into their communities. She also acknowledged their vital role in supporting those with physical, sensory, and cognitive challenges.

Ivan Musenero, Occupational Therapist at Butabika Hospital urged the government to take the issue of occupational Therapy seriously because many people need these services.

Occupational therapy is a holistic approach that helps people of all ages develop, recover, or maintain daily living and working skills. For children, OT can make a profound difference in building independence, confidence, and the physical skills needed for day-to-day tasks.

World Occupational Therapy Day was first launched on 27th October 2010. Since then, it has become an important date in the occupational therapy calendar to promote and celebrate the profession internationally