Uganda remains on course in its commitment to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, despite rising concerns over new HIV infections among young people.
This was revealed by Vincent Bagembe, Director of Planning at the Uganda AIDS Commission, during a media briefing ahead of the Candlelight Memorial Day slated for May 16th. The annual commemoration will feature a walk from Constitutional Square to Ntinda, medical outreach camps, and public awareness drives.
“The theme for this year is ‘Ending AIDS by 2030 – Building a Sustainable Response’. While we’ve made significant strides, we still face challenges, particularly among adolescents aged 15 to 24, who account for over a third of new infections,” Bagembe said.
Uganda currently has 1.49 million people living with HIV, with 92% of them aware of their status, 90% on treatment, and 94% of those achieving viral suppression. This has allowed many to live healthy, productive lives, contributing to their families and the economy.
Bagembe also addressed recent uncertainties caused by U.S. executive orders that put global HIV funding in question. “Despite the freeze, government and partners ensured services remained uninterrupted,” he assured. All public, faith-based, and non-profit health facilities have continued operations, with integrated HIV services now standard practice.
A new National HIV Sustainability Roadmap, developed with UN AIDS and partners, has also been finalized and awaits Cabinet approval. It encourages all stakeholders—from cultural institutions to schools—to take ownership and mainstream HIV response.
Bagembe credited the media’s role in the progress so far, urging them to “raise the alarm” and help reawaken public awareness, especially among youth.
President Yoweri Museveni’s Fast-Track Initiative to End AIDS by 2030 is still a national priority. The government, Bagembe said, remains fully committed to ensuring HIV services are both sustainable and locally driven moving forward.