Health 18 August 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Uganda Reverses Plan to Cut Medical Intern Allowances, Shs1 Million Stipend Maintained
The Ugandan government has decided to maintain the monthly allowance of Shs1 million for all medical interns, reversing a controversial proposal that would have suspended or reduced payments for privately sponsored trainees. This decision follows weeks of public outcry and industrial action by the interns. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4565/all-medical-interns-get-shs1-million-allowance
The Ministry of Health has confirmed that all medical interns in Uganda will continue to receive a monthly net allowance of Shs1 million. This announcement comes as a significant relief to the current cohort of interns who had protested a proposed change in policy.
The National Education and Training for Health Policy had suggested distinguishing between government-sponsored and privately sponsored interns, with the latter potentially receiving only meal support. However, following widespread debate and a series of strikes, Cabinet recommended suspending this provision.
Minister of Health, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, informed Parliament that the government has reverted to the traditional practice of facilitating all interns. He stated, “The current cohort of interns will all receive a net pay of Shs1 million.”
In addition to maintaining the allowance, the government has also expanded the number of internship centers to 77, accommodating 2,490 medical professionals including doctors, pharmacists, dentists, nurses, and midwives. Furthermore, a proposal to mandate internship before graduation has been reversed, with students now graduating after academic completion, while internship remains a prerequisite for professional licensure.
The Minister also pledged to engage relevant authorities for the release of interns who were arrested during their demonstrations. While the decision was welcomed by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, he urged a review of the Shs1 million allowance to account for inflation and called for a sustainable, long-term facilitation plan for future interns.
Members of Parliament also stressed the importance of entrenching internship facilitation in the national budget and called for adequate accommodation for interns. The Deputy Speaker emphasized the need for ministers to proactively brief Parliament on significant policy changes rather than allowing information to spread through media channels.
Source: Parliament of Uganda