KAMPALA – The Ministry of Health in Uganda has issued a statement to counter misleading media reports on the availability of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in the country. A recent article published in the New Vision on March 18, 2025, titled “Panic as HIV Drug Supply Reduces,” has been deemed inaccurate and exaggerated, causing unnecessary fear and anxiety among the public.
According to the Ministry of Health, ARVs remain available and free in all public and Private Not-For-Profit (PNFP) health facilities. The Ministry distributes ARVs to over 2,000 health facilities every two months through the National Medical Stores (NMS) and Joint Medical Stores (JMS). Notably, there have been no reported stockouts of ARVs over the past two years.
“We reassure all Ugandans that HIV prevention and treatment services remain accessible and free nationwide,” said Dr. Charles Olaro, Acting Director General of Health Services. “The Government of Uganda remains fully committed to ensuring a steady supply of high-quality, effective antiretroviral treatment, and we encourage all people living with HIV to fully utilize these essential services.”
The Ministry has also assured that drug procurement remains unaffected despite the ongoing United States Government executive order on re-evaluating and realigning foreign aid. Furthermore, a shift towards a patient-centered model is underway, integrating services for HIV/AIDS, TB, Hepatitis B, Hypertension, and Diabetes into routine outpatient and chronic care services across all healthcare levels.
Uganda’s local pharmaceutical sector is growing, with WHO-prequalified manufacturing at Quality Chemicals Uganda Limited in Luzira, Kampala. Since 2023, the company has been producing ARVs and anti-malarial medicines for both local and international markets.
The Ministry of Health has called upon media houses to uphold ethical reporting by verifying facts before publication. Misinformation on critical health matters can create unnecessary panic and hinder national HIV/AIDS response efforts.
In conclusion, the Ministry reassures all Ugandans that HIV prevention and treatment services remain accessible and free nationwide. The Government of Uganda remains committed to ensuring a steady supply of high-quality, effective antiretroviral treatment.
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