AHF opened the first AHF Uganda Cares clinic in Masaka District in February 2002 through a collaboration with the Ugandan Ministry of Health, offering the first ever opportunity for antiretroviral treatment (ART) outside of the capital city of Kampala in a public health facility – Masaka Regional Referral Hospital.

 AHF Uganda Cares is one of the largest providers of free HIV services in the country, offering prevention, treatment, and care. Its model, which integrates public, civil society, and community participation, was recognized as a best practice for ART by the World Health Organization and UNAIDS in 2003. With intensive support from community-based organizations, 98% of clients adhere to their treatment regimens. Over the years, the program has expanded to cover 28 districts, including Rakai, where the first case of HIV in Uganda was identified in 1980.

AHF Uganda Cares provides free ART to more than 148,600 people nationwide, alongside targeted HIV testing and counseling services to reach at-risk populations and link positive clients to care. Prevention efforts include condom education, free condom distribution, and safer sex promotions through outreach and media campaigns.

HIV testing is available in all 64 AHF-supported health facilities, complemented by infrastructure improvements to create a dignified service environment for clients. Additionally, AHF Uganda Cares engages in advocacy to promote treatment access, secure funding for HIV response, protect the rights of girls, and emphasize condom use as a key HIV prevention method.