Uganda is set to join the rest of the world to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, 2023, under the theme for this year’s celebrations is “Let communities lead.”

As Uganda celebrates World Aids Day, one may ask, “Why is it still important to keep commemorating the day every year as a country?

According to Dr. Richard Mugahi, the Assistant Commissioner at the Ministry of Health in charge of reproductive health, they have made great strides in tackling HIV/AIDS, and it is important that they keep pushing so that there will be zero prevalence of AIDS in Uganda by 2030.

World AIDS Day provides a platform to unite people worldwide in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It serves several crucial purposes, and these include:

Raising awareness: World AIDS Day is an opportunity to educate communities about HIV/AIDS, its modes of transmission, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection and treatment.

Honoring Lives Lost: The day serves as a solemn occasion to remember and honour the millions of lives lost to HIV/AIDS. It also acknowledges the resilience of those living with the virus.

Promoting Solidarity: World AIDS Day promotes global solidarity in the face of HIV/AIDS. It encourages individuals, communities, and nations to stand together to overcome the challenges associated with the virus.

Encouraging Prevention and Testing: By dispelling myths and misconceptions, the day encourages people to engage in open conversations about HIV/AIDS, promote safe practices,and advocate for regular testing.

Dr. Mugahi also encouraged all Ugandans to unite against stigma.

“Stigma remains a formidable barrier in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The negative attitudes, discrimination, and prejudice associated with the virus can prevent individuals from seeking testing, treatment, and support. Breaking down stigma is vital in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Mugahi added.

HIV prevalence is 5.8 percent (7.2 percent among women and 4.3 percent among men), corresponding to approximately 1.4 million adults living with HIV in Uganda.

The theme for this year’s celebration in Uganda is “Ending AIDS by 2030, Keeping Communities at the Center.” The function will be held at Kibaale playground, Kibaale Town Council, Rakai District, and His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will be the chief guest.