On 31 March 2026, Uganda’s Ministry of Health officially received over $100 million worth of digital health infrastructure from the U.S. Government during a handover ceremony at the Ministry’s offices in Kampala. The transfer marks the conclusion of 15 years of support through the Monitoring and Evaluation Technical Support (METS) programme run by Makerere University School of Public Health and partners.
The package included 725 servers, more than 4,700 computing devices, solar power systems for nearly 800 health facilities, and connectivity equipment for over 1,300 sites nationwide, according to a Makerere University statement. This vast digital infrastructure is now under full Ugandan government ownership, as confirmed by the Ministry of Health and the U.S. Embassy in Uganda.
U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp highlighted the significance of the handover, saying during the ceremony: “This handover marks a new phase of national ownership and sustained self-reliance, as the Ministry of Health assumes full responsibility for these systems.” He also emphasised the mutual benefit of stronger health systems, stating, “A stronger health system in Uganda protects both Americans and Ugandans.”
Since its inception in 2010, the METS programme has developed critical health systems, platforms, and tools that now support Uganda’s national health goals. The transfer coincides with renewed health financing challenges in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2026 that Uganda faces mounting pressure on health financing and is working alongside partners on efficiency and resilience strategies, including conducting a health financing cliff analysis.
WHO’s earlier research points to a varied record in Uganda on the sustainability of health programmes after donor withdrawal, stressing that success depends on integration with government systems, programme design, and jointly developed transition plans. This context underscores the importance of the Ministry’s new stewardship role in managing the digital health assets.
Local media coverage describes the transition as a major digital shift into national control, reflecting broader efforts across Africa to increase health system autonomy and sustainability amid changing donor landscapes. Experts stress that such infrastructures are foundational for delivering quality health services, especially in rural and underserved areas, where solar-powered connectivity enables continuous operation despite power outages.
While the handover secures ownership of digital resources, the challenge ahead lies in maintaining and advancing these systems amid fiscal constraints. Uganda’s health sector now faces the task of balancing system operation with urgent patient care needs, a dynamic that demands practical solutions beyond technology alone.
This story is verified by the U.S. Embassy in Uganda, Uganda’s Ministry of Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, WHO, and independent local media. Further updates will follow as Uganda’s Ministry implements its new responsibilities and the impact of this transition unfolds.