Uganda has made a landmark commitment to its health sector, nearly doubling funding to Shs5.87 trillion ($1.5 billion) in the 2025/26 financial year, up from Shs2.95 trillion in the previous cycle.
Finance Minister Matia Kasaija announced the allocation during the national budget reading, noting that health will take 8.1% of the Shs72.37 trillion national budget. The move signals a bold push to strengthen public health infrastructure amid declining donor support and a rising disease burden.
The new funding will prioritize:
- Operationalizing Health Centre IVs across the country.
- Expanding digital health systems for improved service delivery.
- Upgrading cancer and cardiovascular facilities to address growing non-communicable diseases.
Progress in 2024/25
Recent achievements include the commissioning of three regional blood banks in Hoima, Arua, and Soroti, the operationalization of 16 oxygen plants, and the introduction of the malaria vaccine into Uganda’s national immunization program. The long-delayed Lubowa Specialised Hospital, now 68% complete, is also moving forward, with specialist training already underway.
Concerns and Risks
Despite the historic increase, health experts warn that funding delays and procurement inefficiencies could stall progress. Peter Eceru, a health policy analyst, cautioned that effective implementation will be critical.
The Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) also raised concerns about sustainability, noting that 78% of the Ministry of Health’s Shs1.61 trillion allocation is donor-funded. The organization urged government to scale up domestic financing to meet the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) 2030 target.
A Pivotal Step
This landmark budget reflects Uganda’s resolve to strengthen health systems, confront both infectious and non-communicable diseases, and enhance emergency and specialized care-positioning the health sector as a cornerstone of national development.
