Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has criticized government spending priorities, questioning why Shs158 billion can be allocated for Members of Parliament’s cars while Shs28 billion for medical interns’ allowances is described as “too heavy for the economy.”
Speaking on June 7, 2026, during an ordination service, the Archbishop said medical interns carry a major burden in Uganda’s health system, often handling long shifts and performing critical hospital duties, while some senior doctors are frequently absent from frontline work.
He argued that the government’s justification for cutting or phasing out intern allowances does not match the reality of their contribution in hospitals.
The remarks come amid ongoing debate over Uganda’s health sector budget priorities, with authorities moving to phase out monthly stipends of about Shs1 million for interns, viewing the programme as part of unpaid training despite rising numbers of medical graduates.
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