Masindi District Ranks Second in HIV/AIDS Prevalence in Bunyoro, After Hoima

Summary:

• Masindi District ranks second in HIV/AIDS prevalence in Bunyoro, with Hoima city highest at 6.7%, above the national average of 5.1%. Uganda AIDS Commission’s Hope Murungi highlighted the need for continued vigilance, noting 1,000 new infections weekly.

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The HIV/AIDS prevalence in Bunyoro’s eight districts highlights significant regional health challenges, with Masindi District ranking second highest after Hoima city, which has a rate of 6.7%, surpassing the national average of 5.1%. This information was presented by Ms. Hope Murungi, Coordinator Civil Society and Private Sector at the Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC), during an awareness campaign for communities affected by oil projects.

Here are the detailed prevalence rates across Bunyoro:

• Hoima city: 6.7%
• Masindi District: Slightly lower than Hoima
• Kibaale District: 5.2%
• Kiryandongo District: 4.2%
• Hoima District (excluding the city): 4.2%
• Kagadi District: 4.3%
• Kikuube District: 4.3%
• Kakumiro District: 3.6%
• Buliisa District: 3.5%

Ms. Murungi underscored the ongoing threat of HIV/AIDS and reiterated the commitment to combat the epidemic by 2030, in line with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s vision. She also noted the high rate of new infections, with 1,000 new cases weekly in Uganda, which translates to about 142 new infections daily. This adds to the 1.4 million individuals living with HIV, 200,000 of whom are not receiving treatment.

Ms. Catherine Tumusiime, HR Manager at the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with stakeholders to enhance HIV awareness, especially among women. She cautioned against the risks posed by transient workers in the oil sector, urging women to know their HIV status and take protective measures to maintain their health and prevent new infections.

The combined efforts of the UAC and UNOC aim to address the HIV/AIDS challenge comprehensively, promoting prevention, treatment, and awareness in Bunyoro and beyond.

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