December 1st marked World AIDS Day, an annual global event aimed at raising awareness and expressing solidarity with individuals affected by HIV. This year’s theme, “Let Communities Lead,” highlighted the pivotal role of communities in the ongoing fight against HIV. In Kamuli district, Uganda, an event organized by the local government in collaboration with the Jinja Area Community Federation (JIACOFE) at Buterimire Primary School in Kamuli municipality saw stakeholders address the pressing issue of increasing HIV cases among the youth.
Ms. Rose Birungi, the Kamuli Resident District Commissioner (RDC), presided over the function and voiced her concern about the rising number of young people contracting the virus in Kamuli and across the country. Ms. Birungi urged underage individuals to abstain from sexual activity as a crucial measure to combat HIV transmission in the region.
“It is really disappointing that the number of young people living with HIV is highly growing. We must ensure combating its transmission for the good of our young generation,” stated Ms. Birungi.
She emphasized the need for men to take a leading role in community sensitization about HIV, recognizing them as essential communicators in the fight against the disease.
Dr. Moses Lyaboga, the Kamuli District Health Officer, shared alarming statistics, revealing that out of 25,000 individuals tested for HIV, 300 received positive results. Despite widespread testing efforts, the transmission of the disease remains rampant in communities. Dr. Lyaboga further highlighted that, within three months, out of 7,000 pregnant women attending antenatal services in government health facilities, 300 were found to be infected with HIV. He emphasized the importance of immediate medication and seeking medical guidance from healthcare professionals for those who test positive.
As Uganda joins the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day, local leaders and health officials in Kamuli district stress the urgency of collective efforts to address the increasing prevalence of HIV among the youth, emphasizing the role of communities in leading the response against the deadly virus.
