In a landmark ceremony at the Ministry of Health on March 31, the United States Government officially transferred over $100 million (Shs 376.2 billion) worth of digital health infrastructure to Uganda.
The handover includes digital platforms, data systems, computing equipment, and key personnel to strengthen Uganda’s health security and national self-reliance.
The transfer is part of the five-year U.S.-Ugandan Health Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2025 under the America First Global Health Strategy, which emphasizes durable, accountable health systems that protect both Americans and Ugandans.
“A stronger health system in Uganda protects both Americans and Ugandans,” said U.S. Ambassador to Uganda William W. Popp. “Countries that can detect and respond to disease threats quickly reduce risks that cross borders. This transition shows that U.S. foreign assistance, delivered with accountability, can build lasting national capacity.”
The handover caps 15 years of U.S. support through the Monitoring and Evaluation Technical Support (METS) Program, implemented by Makerere University School of Public Health. From 2010 to 2026, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided nearly $104 million to modernize Uganda’s HIV response and national health information systems.
The equipment includes 725 servers, more than 4,700 devices (desktops, laptops, tablets), solar power systems for nearly 800 health facilities, network equipment for over 1,300 sites, video conferencing systems, and upgraded referral hospital networks, along with trained staff to manage these systems.
With the transfer, Uganda’s Ministry of Health now assumes full ownership and management of these digital platforms, signaling a major step toward sustainable health systems. The handover also follows the $2.3 billion, five-year U.S.-Uganda Health MOU, reflecting a commitment to resilient health systems and responsible stewardship of resources.
