UNFAZED! We’ve Multiple Partners, Health Ministry Responds To Trump Aid Cuts

Uganda’s Ministry of Health has assured the public that essential services, including the provision of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), will continue uninterrupted despite the executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump suspending aid to countries worldwide for 90 days.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday morning, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, emphasized that Uganda is not solely reliant on U.S. assistance, as it has multiple development partners supplementing healthcare programs.

“Our activities are ongoing despite the executive order by President Trump suspending aid to countries. Partners are supplementing because we do not have only the U.S. as our partners,” Dr. Atwine said.

She noted that the aid suspension provides an opportunity for Uganda to reassess critical areas requiring urgent government intervention and reduce dependence. “It is an opportunity to get back on the drawing board to assess critical areas that cannot be postponed for government to address,” she added.

To ensure sustainability, the Ministry of Health is implementing cost-cutting measures and prioritizing essential programs. “We must be frugal and cut out unnecessary expenses,” Dr. Atwine stressed.

Increased Budget for ARVs

Dr. Atwine used the occasion to announce that the government is increasing the budget for antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to safeguard treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS.

“The public should not worry because we have drug stocks. This is also an opportunity to drive us to some level of independence,” she reassured.

Uganda is a recipient of U.S. aid, some of which is directed toward healthcare, including HIV/AIDS treatment, maternal and child health, and malaria prevention. While the aid suspension may pose challenges, Dr. Atwine expressed confidence in the government’s ability to navigate the situation without jeopardizing critical health programs.

U.S. President Trump recently announced a 90-day suspension of aid to various countries, citing the need for a review of its foreign assistance commitments. The decision has sparked concerns among beneficiaries, but Ugandan authorities remain optimistic about sustaining essential services through alternative support and internal budget adjustments.

Government’s Next Steps

The Ministry of Health is expected to engage with other development partners to explore alternative funding sources and ensure continued support for key programs. Additionally, efforts are underway to strengthen domestic healthcare financing to reduce reliance on external aid in the long term.

Dr. Atwine reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted service delivery and urged Ugandans to remain calm as the ministry takes necessary steps to mitigate any potential impact.