CSOs Call for Greater Domestic Investment in Community Health at National Dialogue

8 May 2025, 9:40 pm

By Annet Nakato

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are urging the government to increase domestic investment in health services to improve the well-being of vulnerable communities, especially in light of reduced international aid.

This appeal was echoed during a side event at the 2025 National Health Financing Dialogue held at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

The event, organized by Akina Mama wa Africa and VSO International in partnership with other stakeholders, brought together various groups to discuss the role of community-led initiatives in addressing health challenges faced by at-risk populations. The gathering was held under the theme: “The Integration Agenda: What Space is Left for Civil Society Organizations in Local Health Funding?”The discussions were sparked by the recent decision by the United States to cut funding for health aid, which has prompted CSOs to seek new ways of mobilizing local resources to support underserved communities.

Grace Namataka from Akina Mama wa Africa emphasized the need for Uganda to follow the example of countries like Kenya and Nigeria by building strong community-based organizations. “These organizations play a key role in helping grassroots communities access health services,” she noted.

Namataka also stressed the importance of transparency and citizen engagement, urging communities to interact with Parliament to track how public funds are spent.

Richard Lusimbo, Director General of the Uganda Key Population Consortium, highlighted the urgency of including health funding for community organizations in the national budget. “This support is vital for these organizations to effectively meet the needs of key populations,” he said.

Adding to the call for accountability, Julian Lunguzi, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Coordinator at UNFPA, emphasized that communities must be at the center of change.

He encouraged proactive action in demanding transparency and reporting local challenges to ensure proper use of health resources.

As Uganda navigates shifts in global health funding, civil society leaders are calling for stronger local partnerships and increased domestic investment to fill the gap and build resilient health systems from the ground up.