For decades, the U.S. has played a vital role in supporting global public health, funding programs that have saved millions of lives. However, recent executive orders threaten this progress, putting Uganda’s critical health initiatives in jeopardy. The reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule (GGR) is particularly devastating, systematically undermining Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and restricting essential funding for life-saving services.
Uganda’s healthcare system, especially programs addressing HIV prevention, maternal health, and reproductive rights, is heavily reliant on foreign aid. Programs like Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, which brought us to the verge of eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission, now face uncertainty. Without urgent action, at least 41 children could be newly infected with HIV every day, reversing years of progress.
As civil society organizations (CSOs), our mandate is constitutionally rooted—we complement government efforts and hold it accountable. Yet, despite directly contributing to national health programs, much of our work remains dependent on external funding. The lack of asocial contract policy to enable direct government funding leaves us vulnerable to political shifts that dictate access to essential healthcare services.

We engaged in a critical dialogue organized by CEHURD, bringing together CSOs, NGOs, health workers, and key populations to assess the far-reaching implications of these policies. The discussions underscored the urgent need to strengthen domestic health financing mechanisms and build a sustainable, locally driven response to public health challenges. Without decisive action, Uganda’s most vulnerable populations will continue to bear the brunt of policies made far beyond our borders
Moving forward, it is imperative that we champion policy reforms that strengthen Uganda’s health system, making it more resilient and self-sufficient. A future where healthcare access is stable and independent of external influences is within our reach—but it requires collective action. We call on the government, civil society, and all stakeholders to come together in a shared commitment to sustainable health financing. By investing in homegrown solutions, we can safeguard the progress made, protect vulnerable communities, and build a health system that truly serves all Ugandans—now and for generations to come.