Back in the Lecture Hall
I want them to know that it is possible to turn back, and that nobody has to do it alone.
Read Ivan’s story
Addiction and mental health support in Uganda
Recovery speaks louder than silence.
We walk with people and families affected by addiction, trauma and mental health challenges. We listen first, care without judgement and stay for the long road.
15+
People supported through care, outreach and peer groups
5
Communities reached in and around Kampala
10+
Volunteers giving their time every month
Recovery is possible
You are not alone
Dignity for every person
Healing happens in community
Every voice matters
Who we are
Addiction and mental illness grow in silence. We answer with conversation, care and community, so that no one in Uganda has to recover alone.
Voices of Recovery Movement is a community-led organisation based in Ntinda, Kampala. We bring together people with lived experience, trained counsellors and families to offer support that is practical, confidential and free of shame.
Whether you are struggling yourself or worried about someone you love, you will be met with respect and a clear plan.
Healing is something we do together, never alone.
How support works
A clear path from the first call to lasting recovery.
Reaching out is often the hardest step. Here is what happens after you do, so there are no surprises.
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01
Reach out
Call, send a WhatsApp message or visit us in Ntinda. Speak to us in confidence, for yourself or for someone you love.
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02
Assessment
A counsellor listens to your story and understands your needs, history and goals. There is no judgement and no pressure.
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03
Your care plan
Together we choose the right support: residential treatment, outpatient care, family sessions or peer circles.
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04
Aftercare for life
Recovery continues after treatment. Peer circles, mentoring and employment support help you stay well.
What we do
Programmes built around real lives.
Every programme is designed around one principle: meet people where they are, and walk with them towards where they want to be.
- 01 Residential Treatment A structured live-in programme with counselling, daily routine and round-the-clock support for people who need a safe place to begin.
- 02 Outpatient Support Regular counselling, check-ins and group sessions for people who are recovering while living at home, studying or working.
- 03 Peer Support Circles Weekly groups led by trained peers in recovery. Share, listen and grow with people who understand from experience.
- 04 Family Bridges Workshops that help families rebuild trust, set healthy boundaries and understand how addiction really works.
- 05 Recovery Education Academy A twelve-week course in coping skills, relapse prevention, nutrition and mindfulness for lasting change.
- 06 Second Chances Employment Job readiness training, CV workshops and partnerships with employers committed to fair-chance hiring.
Our impact so far
Every number is a person who chose to begin.
We are a young movement growing one conversation at a time. These are the people and communities we have reached together.
15+
People supported through care, outreach and peer groups
5
Communities reached in and around Kampala
10+
Volunteers giving their time every month
A word from our founder
Healing begins when people are given a voice, not silence.
Kuol Bol MelFounder, Voices of Recovery Movement
Kuol founded the movement to change how Ugandan communities respond to addiction and mental health challenges: with understanding instead of shame, and with support that lasts well beyond the first conversation.
Voices
Stories of hope, told in their own words.
Behind every recovery is a person who decided their story was not over. These are a few of them, shared with permission.
Learning to Ask for Help
Asking for help was the bravest thing I have ever done, and I am proud of it.
Read Sarah’s story
A Mother's Side of the Story
You do not need to have the answers to take the first step.
Read Grace’s story
From the field
Real conversations, in real schools.
Together with Fortress Care International Uganda, our team has been taking honest conversations about drugs, pressure and mental health into secondary schools around Kampala. Students ask the questions they cannot ask at home, and leave knowing where to find help.
In partnership with
In the community
Where you will find us next.
We take support to schools, markets, campuses and neighbourhoods, because many people will never walk into an office to ask for help.
Upcoming
Voices in Schools: Drug Awareness Week
Voices in Schools is a week of interactive sessions in secondary schools across Kampala, delivered with head teachers, school nurses and student…
Read more
Upcoming
Family Bridges Open Day
An open afternoon for parents, spouses, siblings and carers of people living with addiction. No booking is required and every conversation is…
Read more
Upcoming
Recovery in the Open: Community Gathering
Our end of year gathering brings together people in recovery, their families, volunteers, partners and neighbours to celebrate every step forward…
Read moreWorking alongside
Organisations that share the work.
Clinical care, counselling and community partners we refer to and learn from.
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Fortress Care International Uganda
- Become a partner
Get involved
There is a place for you in this movement.
Give your time, your skills or your support. Every contribution becomes part of someone’s recovery.
Volunteer
Support peer circles, mentor someone in early recovery or help us run outreaches and events.
Become a volunteerPartner with us
Schools, employers, faith communities and organisations can host sessions, sponsor programmes or offer work placements.
Start a partnershipGive
Fund counselling sessions, outreach and recovery resources for people who could never afford them alone.
Make a donationIf today feels heavy
You do not need the right words. Just start here.
Call or message us and a member of our team will respond with care, in confidence.