December 1st, 2025 — As the world commemorates World AIDS Day, the Rt. Rev. Assoc. Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, the Bishop of Ankole Diocese and Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda, has urged African governments to increase domestic financing to bridge growing HIV/AIDS funding gaps that threaten hard-won progress in prevention and treatment.
Bishop Sheldon made the remarks in a media interview today, following his participation in the recently concluded African Faith and Health Leaders Consultation held in Nairobi. The consultation, hosted by Christian Connections for International Health (CCIH), the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), and the Africa Christian Health Associations Platform (ACHAP), brought together religious leaders, youth representatives, and health experts from 10 African countries.
During the summit, delegates voiced deep concern over declining global health funding, warning that reductions are already affecting HIV testing, prevention outreach, community awareness campaigns, and psychosocial support—services that faith-based health institutions have historically delivered across Africa.
Bishop Sheldon said many communities are now experiencing the effects of these shifting donor priorities.
“Many organizations that previously financed community HIV testing, radio and TV prevention campaigns, and outreach programs have exited. The U.S. Government is now focusing its support mainly on ARVs through government MOUs, but not on the wider community services that once sustained awareness and prevention. Religious leaders must step into this widening gap.” Bishop Sheldon said.
He cautioned that without increased national financing, the continent risks losing momentum in the fight against HIV/AIDS and related diseases.
“Governments need to increase their contribution to health budgets to address the funding shortfall, or many lives will be lost. Funding for malaria and tuberculosis is also declining, while people living with HIV who also face non-communicable diseases require integrated care. Without stepped-up domestic investment, the gaps will deepen.” Bishop Sheldon warned.
Throughout the Nairobi consultation, participants underscored the indispensable role of faith-based health providers, who operate thousands of hospitals, clinics, and community programs across Africa, particularly in remote and underserved regions. They emphasized that stronger collaboration between governments and faith-based actors is essential to building resilient, equitable, and sustainable health systems.
Bishop Sheldon reaffirmed the commitment of faith leaders to advocacy, prevention, and community support urging governments to act decisively to protect vulnerable populations and sustain the fight against HIV/AIDS.
