Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Uganda

Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Uganda is a nationally registered non-governmental organization dedicated to enhancing mental health and psychosocial well-being among vulnerable and marginalized populations across Uganda.

🏛️ Background and Evolution

TPO Uganda commenced its operations in 1994 as the Institute for Psychosocial and Social Ecological Research (IPSER), initially focusing on mental health research. In response to the influx of South Sudanese refugees into Uganda, the organization transitioned to direct service provision, emphasizing community-based psychosocial support. By 1997/1998, it rebranded as TPO Uganda, expanding its interventions to include trauma healing, child protection, and economic empowerment. Over the years, TPO Uganda has broadened its reach, currently operating in 56 districts across various regions, including Acholi, Lango, Teso, Karamoja, South West, West Nile, and Central Uganda.

🎯 Vision and Mission

• Vision: A society where individuals enjoy mental health and socio-economic well-being.

• Mission: To empower communities to improve their mental health and socio-economic well-being.

🧩 Core Program Areas

TPO Uganda implements a diverse range of programs aimed at addressing various aspects of mental health and community well-being:

• Mental, Neurological, and Substance Use Disorders: Providing comprehensive mental health services to address a spectrum of disorders.

• Child Care and Protection: Aligning with the UN’s Global Agenda 2030 to create safer environments for children.

• Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Mitigation: Implementing interventions guided by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) to prevent and respond to GBV.HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care, and Support: Scaling up prevention efforts and providing care and support services.

• Livelihood Support: Enhancing food security and economic empowerment, particularly for women and vulnerable households.

• Disaster Risk Prevention and Response: Building community resilience to disasters through preparedness and response initiatives.

• Organizational Development and Sustainability: Strengthening internal capacities to ensure sustainable program implementation.

🌍 Key Initiatives and Partnerships

• Journey of Life (JoL): In collaboration with Washington University in St. Louis, TPO Uganda implemented the JoL program in the Kiryandongo refugee settlement. This initiative aimed to support caregivers and improve parenting practices among conflict-affected populations.

• Watch My Neighbor: A community-led initiative piloted in Lira, focusing on preventing violence against children and facilitating their return to school. The program successfully supported 447 children in rejoining the education system.

🤝 Collaborations and Affiliations

TPO Uganda collaborates with various stakeholders, including local governments, international donors, and academic institutions, to enhance the effectiveness and reach of its programs. Notably, the organization has partnered with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the Ministry of Health, and institutions like Makerere University to integrate mental health services into broader health and social programs.

📍 Contact Information

• Head Office: Munyonyo, Wamala Close, Block 257, Plot 652, P.O. Box 21646, Kampala, Uganda

• Phone: +256 414 510 256

• Toll-Free: 0800 322 170

• Email: info@tpoug.org

• Website: tpoug.org