Mak Counselling & Guidance Centre and UVA Collaborate to Launch Book on Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Uganda
On April 26th, 2024, Dr. Hafsa Lukwata, representing Dr. Diana Atwine, launched a significant literary work titled “Higher Powers: Alcohol and After in Uganda’s capital city.” This launch marked the introduction of a collaborative effort between Ugandan researchers Sarah Namirembe, George Mpanga, and University of Virginia’s Associate Professor China Scherz. The event took place at Makerere University’s Conference Hall in Kampala, Uganda.
Henry Nsubuga, Manager of the Counselling and Guidance Centre at Makerere University, expressed gratitude to the authors for their diligent research. He acknowledged their contribution to understanding and treating alcohol use disorder (AUD), particularly within the Ugandan context.
The book, developed over a four-year period, delves into therapeutic approaches to alcohol addiction recovery in Uganda. It highlights successful recovery stories, primarily from individuals in Kampala, shedding light on various treatment modalities available in the region.
George Mpanga, one of the authors, emphasized the significance of conducting the research in Kampala due to its diverse range of treatment options, including rehabilitation programs.
“Higher Powers” focuses on four main approaches to recovery: Biological, Social, Clinical, and Religious. It explores how some individuals find healing through religious practices, be it in churches, traditional shrines, or herbal medicines.
Associate Professor China Scherz emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating that it brings together insights from Uganda and other African regions. This collaboration aims to foster more inclusive and effective treatment practices.
Dr. Lukwata, during the launch, expressed appreciation to the authors and participants involved in the research. She highlighted the government’s efforts to address alcohol misuse through initiatives such as the alcohol control bill.
Prof. Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye, from the School of Public Health, commended the book for its educational value and encouraged individuals to engage with its contents.
Dr. David Basangwa, former head at Butabika Hospital Alcohol and Drug Unit, praised the book’s title, “Higher Powers,” noting its relevance in addressing life’s challenges. He also emphasized the importance of destigmatizing alcohol addiction.
The book launch attracted a diverse audience, including policymakers, treatment specialists, recovered individuals, academic staff, and students from Makerere University.
Through a partnership with the University of California, a complimentary PDF version of the book is accessible to interested readers, facilitating broader dissemination of knowledge on alcohol addiction treatment.
To access the complimentary PDF copy, click the following link.
