Ministry of Health Assures Continuity of Services Amid U.S. Aid Suspension

Kampala— The Ministry of Health has reassured Ugandans that essential health services will continue uninterrupted despite a temporary suspension of U.S. foreign assistance programs.

The suspension, announced through an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, halts all foreign aid for 90 days to allow for policy reviews, affecting key initiatives such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the ministry is prepared to handle the situation and ensure continuity.

“Yes, our partners have communicated about the executive order, and it halts activities until reviews are done. But our services are ongoing, and we are continuing to provide,” Dr. Atwine told journalists in Kampala on Monday.

She emphasized that Uganda has sufficient stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs stored at the National Medical Stores and Joint Medical Stores, ensuring no immediate disruption in treatment for HIV patients.

 “The medicines didn’t disappear when the announcement was made. We still have drugs, and we are reorganizing to ensure essential services remain unaffected,” she added.

While acknowledging the critical role U.S. funding has played in supporting Uganda’s health sector, Dr. Atwine stressed the need for efficiency and self-reliance. “The Ministry of Health provides the budget to run our health services. Partners like the U.S. government, Global Fund, and GAVI supplement our efforts. But this also gives us an opportunity to sit with our partners and prioritize critical activities that cannot be postponed,” she said.

The suspension has raised global concerns about the potential impact on programs like PEPFAR, which funds lifesaving ARVs for millions.

However, Dr. Atwine noted that the ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Finance and other government bodies to address gaps. “We must plan as though we don’t have external support. If it comes, we welcome it. But even without it, we must be frugal, cut waste, and direct resources where they are critically needed.”

She highlighted that this challenge presents an opportunity for the Ministry of Health to build greater independence and resilience in managing health services. “Like a household that learns to survive without relying on neighbors, we must reorganize, prioritize, and focus on saving lives. This is a chance to streamline our efforts and become more self-sufficient,” she said.