Uganda seeks US$4M to expand HIV prevention efforts nationwide

UGANDA—Uganda’s government is seeking Shs15 billion (US$4 million) to strengthen HIV prevention programmes nationwide as it steps up efforts to end AIDS by 2030.

The Minister in the Office of the President, Milly Babalanda, presented the funding request to Parliament during a plenary sitting on Thursday, 12 November 2026.

The proposed funding will support the Uganda AIDS Commission in coordinating prevention activities and expanding public awareness campaigns across the country.

Babalanda told lawmakers that Uganda must prioritise prevention, particularly social and behavioural change programmes targeting different population groups.

She identified abstinence and faithfulness as part of the proposed interventions, alongside targeted communication to improve public understanding of HIV prevention.

New infections remain a concern

Despite progress in controlling the epidemic, Uganda continues to face challenges that undermine prevention efforts.

Babalanda identified stigma and discrimination, sexual and gender-based violence, and limited use of digital technologies to communicate with young people as key barriers.

She reported approximately 34,000 new HIV infections annually, with young people accounting for a significant proportion.

Young women aged 15 to 24 represent 30 per cent of new infections, highlighting the need for prevention programmes that address their specific vulnerabilities and improve access to relevant information and services.

The figures reinforce the importance of targeted interventions, particularly for adolescents and young adults.

Expanding digital communication, strengthening community-based programmes and addressing gender-related barriers could improve the reach and effectiveness of prevention campaigns.

Government highlights progress towards 2030 targets

Babalanda credited the Presidential Fast-Track Initiative for contributing to progress towards ending AIDS by 2030.

She reported a 65 per cent decline in annual AIDS-related deaths, although new infections and persistent social barriers continue to challenge the country’s response.

She urged the government to accelerate interventions towards the global targets of zero new HIV infections, zero stigma and discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths.

The proposed funding comes as Uganda seeks to sustain prevention programmes while addressing gaps in public awareness and service delivery.

Adequate financing will be important for strengthening coordination, reaching high-risk populations and expanding communication strategies, particularly among young people.

However, Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth referred the minister’s statement to the Committee on HIV/AIDS for further scrutiny.

He said the committee would examine the Shs15 billion request to establish the specific purpose and justification for the proposed expenditure. 

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