U.S. Aid Suspension Cripples Healthcare Services in Mukono
Massive Job Losses at Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP)
The recent suspension of U.S. foreign aid under President Donald Trump's administration has significantly impacted healthcare services in Mukono District, Uganda. The Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP), a key health initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, has been forced to lay off 200 out of its 236 health workers, retaining only those on permanent contracts.
Strain on HIV and TB Services
MUWRP has been instrumental in providing HIV and tuberculosis (TB) care under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The project previously offered:
HIV screening and treatment
Prophylaxis for opportunistic infections
Rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and adherence support
Integrated tuberculosis (TB) services
Cervical cancer screening for female ART patients
With staff reductions, healthcare services in Mukono, Kayunga, Buikwe, and Buvuma have suffered severe setbacks, particularly at Mukono General Hospital and remote health centers.
Mukono General Hospital on the Brink of Collapse
Mukono General Hospital is operating with only 147 healthcare workers, just 52% of the required workforce. Dr. Geoffrey Kasirye, the hospital’s medical superintendent, has expressed concerns about its ability to function effectively due to a shortage of:
Specialist doctors, including obstetricians, gynecologists, and surgeons
Nurses and other essential healthcare providers
The situation is worsened by a prolonged political deadlock over the formation of the District Service Commission (DSC), which has delayed the recruitment of additional healthcare workers for over three years.
Local Authorities Call for Urgent Intervention
Mukono district speaker Betty Hope Nakasi has urged the DSC to expedite the recruitment of healthcare workers and temporarily deploy MUWRP’s laid-off staff to bridge the service gap. The district administration is assessing the full impact of the funding cut before formally requesting wage allocations from the Ministry of Health.
Broader Impact on Uganda’s Healthcare System
Beyond Mukono, the U.S. aid suspension has also disrupted:
Malaria vaccination programs
HIV treatment and prevention efforts
Tuberculosis management services
In 2024, the U.S. provided over $471 million in health and development assistance to Uganda, including $182 million in humanitarian aid. The loss of this funding has left thousands of individuals—especially pregnant women living with HIV—without consistent access to medication. It is estimated that 41 newborns could contract HIV daily due to the funding halt.
The Need for Sustainable Healthcare Solutions
The crisis in Mukono highlights Uganda’s overreliance on foreign aid for critical health services. Local authorities and policymakers must explore alternative funding mechanisms and strengthen domestic healthcare infrastructure to ensure the continuity of essential health services.
Call to Action
What are your thoughts on this crisis? Like, share, and comment with your suggestions on how Uganda can reduce dependence on foreign aid for healthcare. Follow for more updates on this developing story.
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