KAMPALA, Uganda — Researchers in Uganda are experimenting with artificial intelligence tools to expand access to mental-health care, particularly in rural areas where trained professionals are scarce.
The project involves developing AI-powered chatbots trained using data from national mental-health helplines. The technology is designed to identify symptoms of depression, anxiety, and emotional distress while guiding users toward professional help when necessary.
Health researchers say the innovation could help address the country’s limited number of mental-health specialists, which currently serves a population of more than 45 million people.
However, experts caution that while AI may improve accessibility, concerns remain over data privacy, ethical regulation, and the need to ensure that technology complements — rather than replaces — professional care.
The initiative has attracted interest from regional health organizations looking for scalable solutions to Africa’s growing mental-health burden.
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