HIV cases in Mityana have doubled over the past year, rising from 1.5% to 3%, raising alarm among health authorities who attribute the surge to dwindling funding for HIV/AIDS interventions.
The sharp increase set the tone for this year’s district commemoration of World AIDS Day, held under the theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” The main function took place at Ssekanyonyi Health Center IV in Ssekanyonyi Town Council, where residents gathered to mark the day.
Dr. Peter Muwereza, the Mityana District HIV/AIDS Focal Person, said the rise is concerning. “Currently, HIV prevalence stands at 3% compared to 1.5% last year. This increase is too significant to ignore,” he said.
He attributed the spike to cuts in funding from the United States, which have hindered outreach activities and other critical HIV programs. Dr. Muwereza called on the government and district authorities to plan and budget for HIV/AIDS activities so the response does not rely entirely on donors.
During the event, a young girl, who asked not to be named, shared her testimony of acquiring HIV at an early age. She said she was not born with the virus but was infected following abuse within her family.
Florence Nakanwagi, coordinator for the Mityana District Forum for People Living with HIV/AIDS, said the withdrawal of NGO support has worsened challenges for those on treatment, especially in monitoring and accessing medication. She urged all people on antiretroviral therapy to return to health facilities and continue their treatment.
Representing the district chairperson, Mambo Sulait Ssengendo, the secretary for education and health encouraged residents not to fear testing. “If you discover you have HIV, early treatment can save your life,” he said.
Peter Kimera, assistant resident district commissioner and guest of honor, called on leaders to spearhead community mobilization and sensitization efforts. He noted that some residents avoid testing due to fears of superstition and emphasized the importance of encouragement and education to increase uptake of treatment and care.
