The Ministry of Health has asked Winnie Byanyima to provide concrete proof to back up her allegations of the stockpiling of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs by wealthy individuals.

Emmanuel Ainebyona, the Ministry of Health spokesperson, expressed concern over the serious nature of the allegations but emphasized that they require verifiable evidence before taking action.

Byanyima, who works as the UNAIDS Executive Director, is quoted on her X handle @winnie_byanyima on March 17, 2025, accusing wealthy people of bribing health workers to hoard ARVs intended for vulnerable populations, creating shortages and potentially depriving those who need them most.

Ainebyona, who was speaking with our Nexus media reporter, requested that Byanyima share specific information through the UNAIDS office in Uganda for proper verification.

“We request you to share information through the @UNAIDS_UG office on where this is happening for verification and action. Thank you,” Ainebyona said.

According to him, these claims are speculative because the system for ARV distribution includes monitored refills and adherence to scheduled appointments for patients.

Byanyima’s allegations have ignited a firestorm, with many now questioning the integrity of Uganda’s healthcare system and the accessibility of ARVs for those in need, especially given the vital role these medications play in managing HIV.

She directly appealed to Uganda’s Minister of Health, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwine, urging them to step in immediately and resolve this, saying that every life matters.

The ministry emphasized the current assessment that the claims are unsubstantiated but stressed the need for factual evidence to initiate a formal investigation.

This controversy comes at a time when the UNAIDS organization is facing challenges, including the decision by the Trump administration to cut funding to UNAIDS, which may further complicate the organization’s efforts to address global HIV issues.