New digital hub at Butabika to boost mental health support, skills training

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A digital community centre has been set up at Butabika Hospital to support mental health patients, health workers and the surrounding community.

Mark Kagiri is among the 436 beneficiaries in Kampala who have been trained in computer skills at the newly established digital community centre at Butabika Hospital.

Kagiri, a resident of Luzira in Nakawa division and a Senior Six former student of Luzira Secondary School who is waiting for the release of his A-Level results, said he has learnt how to use Microsoft Word, send emails, use PowerPoint and other computer skills.

(L-R) The District Governor 2025-2026 Geoffrey Martin Kitakule, the executive director of Butabika Hospital Dr Juliet Nakku and ATC Uganda CEO Dorothy Ssemanda Kabagambe addressing participants during the launch of digital community centre at Butabika Hospital in Kampala on Friday March 6, 2026. (Photo by Francis Emorut)

He said this during the launch of the digital community centre, which is equipped with 30 computers and designed to expand mental health support, digital literacy and access to online learning for patients, healthcare workers and the surrounding community.

The digital community centre facility was set up by American Tower Corporation (ATC) Uganda in partnership with the Rotary Club of Butabika Royals and Butabika Hospital.

The digital community initiative is expected to support healthcare workers at Butabika Hospital with digital tools for continuous learning and patient management.

It will also provide young people with free training in digital literacy, financial education and entrepreneurship, offering new pathways for employment and empowerment. For caregivers and community members, the centre will act as a hub for accessing mental health information, online support and safe digital spaces.

The partners noted that the launch of the digital community centre marks a joint effort to strengthen Uganda's mental health response, bridge digital divides, and empower communities with knowledge and skills that foster resilience.

According to ATC Uganda chief executive officer Dorothy Ssemanda Kabagambe, the setting up of the digital community centre comes at a critical moment for Uganda, as rising mental health cases continue to stretch the health system.

"This centre is more than a room with computers; it is a space for learning, connection, empowerment, and healing. Our intention is to support healthcare workers with digital tools, equip young people with employable skills, and make sure the community around Butabika has access to the information and opportunities that technology can offer," Kabagambe said.

She added that ATC Uganda's wider Digital Community Program now spans more than 83 centres across the country, impacting over 90,000 beneficiaries, reflecting the company's long-term commitment to digital inclusion.

Dr Juliet Nakku, the executive director of Butabika Hospital, welcomed the initiative of the digital community information and communication technology learning centre.

A resident of Luzira learning computer skills during the launch of digital community centre at Butabika Hospital in Kampala. (Photo by Francis Emorut)

"We see the complexity of Uganda's mental-health crisis every day, from young people struggling under the weight of unemployment and addiction, to families seeking support for children in distress. This centre will help our clinicians learn, research, and deliver better care. It will also offer meaningful digital engagement for patients in recovery, which is essential in reducing isolation and promoting reintegration," Dr Nakku stated.

Dr Diana Atwiine, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Health, who was represented by the ministry’s spokesperson Emmanuel Ainebyoona, described the intervention as timely and aligned with national priorities.

"Our mental-health burden is rising, our facilities are overstretched, and the pressures facing young Ugandans are immense. Integrating digital tools into healthcare strengthens the system at every level. It improves service delivery, expands access to information, and supports prevention and early detection. We appreciate partners who invest not only in infrastructure but also in people," Ainebyoona said.

The Rotary District Governor 9213 for 2025 to 2026, Geoffrey Martin Kitakule, noted that Rotary's global focus on mental health stems from the recognition that emotional well-being is foundational to development.

"Rotary believes in service that transforms lives. This Digital Community Centre represents hope, dignity, and opportunity. It will expand access to information, skill-building, and supportive spaces, all of which are essential in fostering mental resilience and reducing stigma," Kitakule stated.

He commended the Rotary Club of Butabika Royals for championing community development and identifying partners like ATC Uganda to support the communities in which they operate.

Residents also shared their experiences.

The executive director of Butabika Hospital Dr Juliet Nakku (third right) and other guests interacting with learners during the launch of digital community centre at Butabika Hospital in Kampala on Friday March 6, 2026. (Photo by Francis Emorut)

Joshua Nyamundu, a resident of Mutungo, said he has learnt how to insert tables using Microsoft Word and conduct Google searches on any subject of his choice.

Brian Tebasulwa, a resident of Luzira, noted that he has learnt how to use Excel and Microsoft Word.

Deborah Mbabazi, who resides in Biina, pointed out that the digital community centre has helped her enhance her typing skills and learn how to use the internet.