Uganda’s health sector is grappling with a severe setback following recent cuts in U.S. foreign aid, resulting in a loss of over Shs 604 billion. These reductions have significantly impacted critical health programs, particularly those tackling HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and other essential services.
Health Minister Dr. Ruth Aceng disclosed that the cuts primarily affect six vital health programs: HIV/AIDS initiatives, malaria control efforts, human resources for health, tuberculosis treatment, health information systems, and healthcare waste management.
Dr. Aceng warned that the funding reduction will have wide-reaching consequences, threatening Uganda’s health infrastructure, service delivery, and workforce capacity.
During a meeting with Parliament’s Health Committee to review the Ministry’s 2025/26 Ministerial Policy Statement, Dr. Aceng called for urgent action. She urged the government to reduce dependency on foreign aid and prioritize financial self-reliance in the health sector.
“We are integrating these services into routine healthcare at our facilities and have prepared a cabinet paper for further discussion,” Dr. Aceng said.
International health organizations, including UNAIDS, have voiced strong concerns about the long-term repercussions of the U.S. funding cuts. UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima warned that these cuts could lead to a surge in HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths across Africa.
Byanyima noted that the reductions could undo years of progress in combating HIV/AIDS, potentially resulting in an additional 6.3 million AIDS-related deaths in the coming years if not addressed promptly.
UNAIDS has called for immediate international collaboration to bridge the funding gap left by the U.S. cuts. Byanyima emphasized that other donor nations must step up to prevent further setbacks in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
In light of these challenges, Uganda’s Ministry of Health is exploring pathways to financial self-sufficiency. Dr. Aceng stressed the importance of acting swiftly to fill the funding gap and secure sustainable health financing for the country’s future.
The Ministry is also working on integrating HIV/AIDS and other health services into existing healthcare systems, which could help ease the pressures caused by these funding shortfalls. Additionally, the government is reviewing and refining healthcare policies to ensure that essential services remain accessible to all Ugandans, despite financial constraints.
