The United States has reinforced its global health commitments by signing multi-year bilateral agreements with Uganda and Lesotho as part of the America First Global Health Strategy. The agreements, each spanning five years, aim to strengthen health systems, combat infectious diseases, and encourage greater domestic investment from partner countries.
In Uganda, the U.S. will contribute up to $1.7 billion to fight HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and other infectious diseases, while supporting health system improvements, digital health initiatives, and faith-based health care providers. The Ugandan government has pledged to co-invest more than $500 million in alignment with its National Development Plan IV and Vision 2040. Officials noted that the agreement also includes support for the Ugandan military, which plays a key role in regional health operations.
The pact with Lesotho, valued at $364 million, will allocate $232 million from the U.S. to enhance the country’s HIV/AIDS response, expand the health workforce, strengthen disease surveillance, and modernize data systems. Lesotho plans to invest $132 million domestically to sustain these initiatives. The agreement introduces innovations including internet connectivity for clinics and robotic delivery systems for medical supplies, designed to improve health outcomes and stimulate the local economy.
These agreements aim to protect U.S. interests, promote sustainability in partner countries, and encourage co-investment. They gradually shift responsibilities to partner nations while maintaining U.S. support for frontline health workers and essential supplies.
