In a move that’s raising both eyebrows and questions, Uganda’s Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has earmarked Shs115 million to teach its staff how to properly use condoms and understand HIV prevention.
The funds fall under President Museveni’s long-standing ABC (Abstinence, Be faithful, Condom use) policy—aimed at curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS across the country.
And while the Justice Ministry might not be the first place Ugandans expect to find health education programs, officials argue the fight against HIV knows no professional boundary.
Shadow Minister for Constitutional Affairs, Jonathan Odur, led the charge of skepticism in Parliament, asking bluntly:
“Why are we teaching the Ministry staff how to use condoms?”
His concern was echoed by several MPs who questioned whether this was the best use of public funds—especially in a ministry tasked with upholding the law and delivering justice to citizens still waiting for case backlogs to be cleared.
But Justice Minister Nobert Mao wasn’t backing down.
“Our president has been at the forefront of fighting HIV/AIDS,” he said. “These funds are allocated as part of that national fight. Condoms are part of the solution, not a punchline.”
Mao’s response highlights a key message: HIV prevention is everyone’s responsibility—regardless of profession or office. He further defended the Shs115 million allocation as part of a broader internal awareness campaign meant to safeguard civil servants and set an example for the public.
“Let’s not trivialize this,” he urged lawmakers. “The fight against HIV is serious, and so are these funds.”
Still, the optics of the Justice Ministry—one of Uganda’s most formal institutions—budgeting millions for condom tutorials has ignited public debate.
Critics argue that priorities seem misaligned, especially as citizens struggle with access to legal aid, underfunded courts, and delayed justice.
Yet the Ministry stands firm in its defence. Beyond the humour, they say, is a life-saving message. The ABC approach has long played a role in reducing Uganda’s HIV prevalence rates, and the Ministry sees itself as part of that national success story.
As Parliament continues its scrutiny of public expenditure, one thing is clear: even the guardians of law are being told to guard themselves—responsibly and proactively.
