HIV/AIDS Patients in Bushenyi Fear Drug Sales Amid USAID Funding Cut
Residents in Bushenyi district who are living with HIV/AIDS are increasingly living under uncertainty following the announcement by the US President Donald Trump regarding the suspension of USAID funds. This has led to reports of some healthcare facilities selling antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to patients.
Nobert Gumisiriza, the coordinator of Bushenyi District HIV/AIDS Network Forum confirmed that his office has received multiple complaints about this troubling trend. He condemned the practice emphasizing that despite the suspension of USAID funding, supplies of ARVs should still be provided to facilities at no cost. “There is no justification for selling these life-saving drugs,” Gumisiriza stated.
Reports indicate that some facilities have been charging patients up to UgShs10,000 per tin of ARVs whereby each patient is required to take three tins depending on their distance from care centers and individual health needs.
Henry Barekye, the HIV/AIDS focal person for Bushenyi district, also corroborated the complaints and revealed that investigations indicated that certain facilities were charging patients for medications. “This practice is illegal and goes against the government’s commitment to provide free drug supplies,” Barekye noted.
In response to these violations, the health department has instructed the facilities involved to cease these practices immediately. Authorities are reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that all individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive their medications free of charge as mandated by health policies. The situation remains a concern for community health leaders who are looking forward to protect the rights and health of patients in the district.
