The Division of Mental Health at the Health Ministry, it was disclosed that more than 1.2 million Ugandans, aged 15 and above, are grappling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). AUD is a medical condition characterized by a reduced ability to control or cease alcohol consumption, despite the negative consequences it may have on one’s social, occupational, or health well-being. Dr. Hafsa Lukwata, the assistant commissioner for mental health and control of substance abuse at the ministry, emphasized the importance of providing care to individuals affected by AUD to help them lead productive lives.
Dr. Lukwata also highlighted a concerning trend, stating that over 60 percent of Ugandans use alcohol, with approximately 40 percent of the population consuming alcohol on a daily basis. She pointed out that 7.4 percent of individuals who consume alcohol suffer from AUD, a condition that has left them reliant on alcohol to function in their daily lives. Dr. Lukwata expressed alarm that Uganda has the highest prevalence of alcohol use in Africa, which has adverse implications for the country’s development.
When questioned further about the numbers, Dr. Lukwata clarified that among people who use alcohol, 7.4 percent of them have AUD, which results in the quoted figures.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Ugandans currently consume more than 12 liters of pure alcohol per capita each year, a rate exceeding the African regional average of 6.3 liters and the global average of 6.18 liters per person annually. WHO has labeled this as a pressing issue requiring immediate attention.
Additionally, a study conducted in Mbale, representative of other regions in the country, discovered that 25 percent of children aged six to 13 were consuming alcohol. Both boys and girls were found to be drinking at nearly equal rates. Dr. Lukwata attributed the high consumption to lax alcohol control laws and elevated stress levels within the population. The alcohol and drug units in hospitals, such as Butabika, are currently at capacity, overwhelmed by those seeking treatment.
In response to this growing concern, the government is anticipating a private member’s bill in Parliament to reduce the accessibility of alcohol. The aim is to limit the sale of alcohol to specific hours and locations, in addition to increasing the volume of alcohol packaging. The belief is that smaller packaging volumes are enticing young people to consume alcohol. Dr. Lukwata stressed the need to take action in order to address this escalating issue.
