The Executive Director of Butabika National Referral Hospital, Dr. Juliet Nakku, has announced plans to establish a dedicated epilepsy clinic in Uganda, citing a significant link between epilepsy and mental health conditions.
Dr. Nakku revealed that approximately three in every ten people diagnosed with mental health disorders also suffer from Epilepsy, underscoring the need for specialized care and improved diagnostic capacity.
She made the remarks while appearing before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, responding to concerns rose in the Auditor General of Uganda’s 2024/2025 report.
The report highlighted issues including overutilization of medical equipment and limited maintenance budgets at the hospital.
Addressing the concerns, Dr. Nakku explained that the facility previously relied on only one functional machine to diagnose epilepsy but has since increased the number to two.
She added that plans are underway to procure additional machines as the hospital prepares to roll out a comprehensive epilepsy management service.
By Francis Lubega
17th March 2026
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