In response to the alarming increase in HIV rates among the youth in Kampala’s slums, Karon Relief and Development Foundation, in partnership with Kirinya Health Centre II, have launched a comprehensive five-day HIV awareness campaign.
The outreach, which took place in Kito village of Kira Subcounty, aimed to educate, test and provide preventive resources to the youth in Kira Municipality.
On the first day, over 150 youths participated in the event, taking the critical step to know their HIV status through on-site testing. In addition to testing, attendees received extensive counseling services tailored to address their concerns and provide emotional support. Preventive measures, including the distribution and proper use of condoms, were emphasized to help reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
Ronald Katwalo, Managing Director of Karon Relief Foundation, remarked, “This campaign is not just about testing; it is about creating a sustainable impact through education and preventive measures. Our focus is on empowering the youth with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions about their health. We believe that by working closely with local health centres and community leaders, we can turn the tide against the rising HIV rates.”
Participants expressed their appreciation for the initiative. One youth stated, “I am grateful for the opportunity to know my HIV status. The counseling I received was insightful, and I now understand the importance of using preventive measures to protect myself and others.”
Michael Oleke, the Program Manager at Karon Relief Foundation, added, “The response from the youth has been overwhelmingly positive. Our team is dedicated to providing continuous support and follow-up to ensure that the information and resources shared during this campaign have a lasting impact. We are committed to reaching as many young people as possible with our message of prevention and health.”
The area chairperson commended the efforts of Karon Relief Foundation and Kirinya Health Centre II, saying, “This initiative is a significant step forward in our fight against HIV. The youth are the backbone of our community and providing them with accurate information and resources is crucial. I hope to see more of such impactful initiatives that address pressing health issues in our community.”
The campaign also included interactive sessions where health professionals discussed various aspects of HIV prevention, treatment options, and the importance of regular testing. Educational materials were distributed to ensure that the information reached beyond the participants and into the wider community.