Health 9 October 2026 State House (Uganda)
Museveni Pledges Shs125 Billion for Health Worker Empowerment
President Museveni has committed Shs125 billion towards a fund managed by the Uganda Medical Association SACCO, aimed at providing affordable credit for health workers to pursue further training and establish businesses. The President also addressed issues concerning medical interns' allowances and the classification of their training. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/president-museveni-commits-shs125-billion-to-empower-health-workers
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged a significant financial boost of Shs125 billion to support Uganda’s health workers. This commitment, made during a meeting with medical interns and leaders of the Uganda Medical Association (UMA) at State House Entebbe, is earmarked for the UMA Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation (SACCO).
The substantial fund is intended to provide health professionals with access to affordable loans. This will enable them to finance advanced training, pursue specialized education in private institutions, and establish their own entrepreneurial ventures, thereby creating employment opportunities within the sector. President Museveni described the initiative as a “smart investment” and a “one-time process” rather than a recurring government expense.
During the discussions, the President also addressed concerns regarding the sequencing of medical school graduation and internship. He acknowledged that linking the two processes had been a mistake by the Ministry of Education and pledged to rectify this policy. Furthermore, the issue of medical interns’ allowances was raised, with President Museveni questioning the cessation of sponsorship during the internship year. While acknowledging the need for further discussion and considering affordability, he confirmed that the government would disburse the available Shs2 million allowance for the current year.
The UMA leadership, led by Dr. Frank Asiimwe, welcomed the President’s commitment, highlighting the success of previous SACCO funding. They also presented broader concerns, including career progression for doctors, staffing levels in referral hospitals, and the establishment of regional medical hubs. The Minister of Health, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwiine, affirmed the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the health sector, emphasizing prioritization within allocated resources.
This initiative signifies a major step towards enhancing the financial well-being and professional development of Uganda’s healthcare workforce, addressing long-standing issues faced by medical interns and practitioners.
Source: State House Uganda