Watoto Church has built and handed over a new sports facility at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital to support the rehabilitation of mental health patients through sports and structured recreational activities.
Named Hope Sports Centre, the facility was established through a partnership between Watoto Church, Butabika Hospital and the Ministry of Health.
The centre features facilities for football and basketball and is intended to provide patients with opportunities to engage in physical activity as part of their rehabilitation.
The facility was officially opened on Tuesday by the Minister of Health, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, at a ceremony attended by Watoto Church Team Lead Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo.
Rwotlonyo said the centre is intended to provide patients with a space where they can regain confidence, rebuild their lives and find hope throughout their recovery journey.
“Our hope is that Hope Sports Centre becomes a place where dignity is restored and hope is renewed, a place where dreams will be brought back to life,” Rwotlonyo said.
Watoto Church said the facility would enable patients to participate in football, basketball and other structured recreational activities as part of their rehabilitation.
“Through sport, the centre will create opportunities for people to build friendships, rediscover joy, find purpose, and embrace hope,” the church said.
Butabika Hospital Director Dr Juliet Nakku said the sports facility would promote physical exercise among patients, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.
Baryomunsi thanked Watoto Church for supporting mental health rehabilitation at the hospital, noting that sports can play an important role in patients’ recovery.
“Our gratitude to Watoto for fulfilling Jesus’ mission on earth as put in Luke 4:18-19 here at Butabika. Sports is fundamental in mental therapy and patient rehabilitation. Thank you Watoto,” Baryomunsi said.
The minister also commended Butabika Hospital for creating a conducive environment for mental health rehabilitation.
Watoto Church said Hope Sports Centre is intended to provide patients with a supportive environment where they can heal, connect with others and rebuild their lives.
“Hope grows when people are given space to heal, connect and rebuild,” the church said.
