The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has strongly denied a misleading news report claiming it plans to spend 140 million shillings on training staff to use condoms. In a statement released today, the Ministry clarified the true purpose of its health budget allocation, calling the earlier report inaccurate and irresponsible.

The controversy began after Nile Post News published an article titled “Ministry of Justice to spend 140M teaching its staff how to use condoms.” The Ministry has since explained that the funds in question are part of a standard government policy requiring all ministries and agencies to dedicate a small portion of their budgets to national health and social issues.

According to the Ministry, every government body must set aside 0.01% of its non-wage budget—excluding pensions and gratuity—for programs addressing key national concerns. These include health initiatives like HIV and tuberculosis (TB) awareness, gender equality, and other social welfare activities.

The Ministry confirmed that its actual allocation for these programs is 115 million shillings, not the 140 million reported. This money supports a variety of health-related efforts, not just condom distribution. Among the planned activities are the Annual Medical and Health Camp for staff checkups, participation in national HIV and TB awareness campaigns, and the provision of condoms at headquarters and regional offices as part of broader HIV prevention measures.

The Ministry stressed that the budget is not exclusively for condom-related activities, contrary to what the earlier report suggested. Instead, it covers a wide range of health and wellness programs aimed at keeping employees healthy and informed.

“The allocation supports multiple health initiatives, including medical checkups, disease prevention, and awareness campaigns,” the Ministry stated. “Condom distribution is just one small part of a much larger effort to promote staff well-being in line with national health priorities.”

The Ministry also pointed out that monitoring the implementation of HIV and TB programs within its offices is another key use of the funds. This ensures that government workplaces remain safe and that employees have access to essential health resources.

Disappointed by the misleading report, the Ministry urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing stories that could misinform the public. “We encourage journalists to seek accurate information from official sources to avoid spreading false narratives,” the statement read.

The Ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and proper use of public funds. It emphasized that all budget allocations follow strict government guidelines and are carefully planned to support meaningful programs that benefit both staff and the wider community.

The misunderstanding appears to have come from oversimplifying a standard health budget into a sensational headline. While condoms are indeed part of HIV prevention efforts, they represent only a fraction of the Ministry’s health-related spending. The larger goal is to maintain a healthy workforce through comprehensive wellness programs.

Government workers, like all citizens, face health risks, including HIV and TB. Providing condoms and health education in the workplace is a practical measure to reduce infections, just as private companies might offer flu shots or wellness seminars.

Following the initial report, some Ugandans expressed disbelief, questioning why a Justice Ministry would need such training. However, after the clarification, many now understand that the funds serve a broader and necessary purpose.

“It’s unfortunate that the story was twisted to make it seem like the Ministry was wasting money,” said one civil servant who preferred anonymity. “Health programs for staff are important, and condoms are just a small part of that.” Others called for better communication between government offices and the media to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.

Uganda continues to fight against HIV, with approximately 1.4 million people living with the virus. Workplace interventions, including condom distribution and health education, remain critical in preventing new infections. The Ministry’s budget allocation aligns with the country’s broader strategy to combat HIV/AIDS and other public health challenges.

The Ministry of Justice’s response highlights the importance of accurate reporting, especially when discussing public funds. While catchy headlines may attract attention, they can also distort the truth, leading to unnecessary public confusion.

As the Ministry moves forward with its health and wellness programs, it hopes the public will focus on the real issue—keeping Ugandans healthy—rather than exaggerated claims. The key takeaway is simple: budgets for staff health are necessary, and condoms, while a small part of the plan, play a role in a much larger, life-saving effort. The Ministry’s final message was clear: “We remain committed to proper use of resources and the well-being of our staff. We ask the media and public to rely on verified information, not misleading headlines.”