A newly confirmed medical data-sharing agreement between Uganda and the United States has triggered sharp debate in Parliament, with lawmakers demanding transparency over its scope and legality.
The controversy centers on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) reportedly signed on December 10, 2025, under which Uganda is said to have committed to sharing citizens’ medical data in exchange for American funding support.
The claims have raised concerns about data sovereignty and privacy protections under national law.
Muhammad Nsereko has been among the most vocal critics, arguing that the agreement could contravene provisions of the country’s data protection framework.
He is now calling for full disclosure of the MOU, insisting Parliament must scrutinize its contents to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard citizens’ sensitive information.
In response, Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka has confirmed the existence of the agreement but dismissed claims of illegality. He told Parliament that he had reviewed the document and found it consistent with Ugandan law, including safeguards governing the handling of personal data.
“The agreement is in accordance with the laws of Uganda,” Kiwanuka stated, emphasizing that any sharing of medical data would be subject to existing legal protections. He reassured legislators that no citizen data can be transferred outside the framework established by Uganda’s data protection regulations.
Kiwanuka further advised the relevant parliamentary committee to formally request access to the agreement and examine its provisions in detail, signaling openness to legislative oversight.
The development places renewed focus on Uganda’s data governance regime, particularly the Data Protection and Privacy Act, which regulates the collection, processing, and sharing of personal information. Legal experts note that any cross-border data transfer must meet strict conditions, including ensuring adequate protection in the receiving jurisdiction.
As scrutiny intensifies, the government faces mounting pressure to balance international cooperation with the protection of citizens’ privacy rights. Parliamentary review of the agreement is expected to shape the next phase of the debate, with potential implications for future data-sharing partnerships.
