FMP Musawo Sessions address SRHR crisis among sex workers in Entebbe

Entebbe, Uganda: The Family Medical Point (FMP) has extended vital sexual and reproductive health (SRHR) services to over 100 sex workers in the Nakiwogo fishing community through its latest Musawo Session held on July 23, 2025, at Nakayiza Estates.

The outreach, aimed at empowering women and girls with accurate health information in a stigma-free environment, reached 112 sex workers with crucial services including HIV testing, family planning, mental health counseling, and post-abortion care.

During the session, many participants raised alarm over the growing condom shortage that continues to expose them to heightened risks of HIV, unintended pregnancies, and unsafe abortions. Although FMP distributed 9,000 condoms during the session, demand far outstripped supply.

“We are forced to buy even ‘Government of Uganda’ branded condoms that are supposed to be free,” lamented Suzan, one of the sex workers in attendance.

Ms Nabwire Polyne, the Head of Programmes at FMP, linked the escalating scarcity to the reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule, a policy shift that has disrupted funding for SRHR services across Uganda.

She emphasized that the rollback in international support has crippled essential health interventions for vulnerable populations.

Of the attendees, 52 sex workers took HIV tests, while 94 accessed a range of SRHR and family planning services.

The Musawo Sessions, designed to bridge healthcare gaps for marginalized groups, continue to function as a safe and empowering platform where women can receive counseling, accurate information, and medical support without fear of judgment.

FMP’s approach underlines the urgent need for local and global policymakers to prioritize inclusive healthcare access, particularly for communities most affected by shifting donor dynamics and systemic healthcare barriers.