US Commits $410m in First Year of $1.7bn Health Deal with Uganda
November 3, 2026
Uganda and the United States have held discussions on strengthening cooperation in healthcare delivery, with a focus on supporting Local Governments to improve essential public services.
The discussions took place during a meeting between the Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahare, and a delegation from the United States Embassy in Uganda led by Chargé d’Affaires Mikael Cleverley.
The delegation also included Mary Borgman, the PEPFAR Uganda Country Coordinator, and Kevan Higgins, the Political and Economic Counsellor.
According to Barugahare, the meeting focused on identifying opportunities to support Local Governments in improving service delivery, particularly in the health sector.
The discussions also covered the United States' commitment of US$410 million towards supporting Uganda's health services in the first year, with total support expected to exceed US$1.7 billion over five years.
The agreement was signed on September 3, 2026, by Uganda’s Finance Minister Henry Musasizi and US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mikael Cleverley. It operationalises a Memorandum of Understanding signed on December 10, 2025, under which the United States committed approximately US$1.7 billion in health support over five years, from 2026 to 2030.
Barugahare said Local Governments play a critical role in delivering healthcare services to communities, emphasising the importance of ensuring that the support translates into tangible improvements in health facilities, staffing and service delivery.
He noted that effective implementation of the support would be essential in improving the overall wellbeing of Ugandans, particularly at the grassroots.
The Minister welcomed the continued partnership between the Government of Uganda and the United States, expressing optimism that the collaboration would contribute to stronger health systems and improved quality of life.
The meeting comes as Uganda and the United States seek to strengthen cooperation in the health sector, with Local Governments expected to play a key role in translating national commitments into improved services for communities.
