Uganda and US sign $1.7 billion health cooperation agreement

The governments of Uganda and the United States have signed a Strategic Objective Agreement (SOAG) to fund Uganda’s health sector from 2026 to 2030. The agreement involves a commitment of approximately $1.7 billion (roughly 6.42 trillion Ugandan shillings) from the United States.

The funding is designated for the prevention, detection, and response to both emerging and existing infectious disease threats. This includes ongoing support for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and the management of hemorrhagic fevers and other public health emergencies.

A key shift in this partnership is the method of delivery; the United States will now channel support directly to the Ugandan government through budget support. Previously, much of the aid was distributed via non-governmental organizations, private charities, and local community groups.

Ugandan Finance Minister Henry Musasizi stated that this change aligns with national objectives to strengthen country ownership and improve the sustainability of development cooperation. He noted that while US support is vital, sustainable health outcomes will also require increased domestic financing from the Ugandan government.