OPINION: I would rather be HIV positive than pregnant

By Victoria Sibiya

As I nervously awaited my turn to take the stage at a mental health conference, her words struck a chord deep within me: "I'd rather be HIV positive than pregnant."

Initially, I found myself raising an eyebrow, unsure of how to react. However, before  dismissing her perspective as ignorant, I implore you to join me in exploring the underlying meaning behind those thought-provoking words.

This courageous girl shed light and pointed out the complexities of living with HIV and the societal stigma attached to it.

Although she wasn't speaking from personal experience, she emphasised that managing HIV can often provide a degree of privacy compared to the harsh judgment faced by pregnant teenagers.

According to her perspective, dealing with HIV, despite its challenges, may feel less burdensome than the overwhelming responsibilities, shattered aspirations, and societal shame that accompany teenage pregnancy.

This comparison highlights the different struggles young girls may encounter and calls for a deeper understanding and support for their unique circumstances.

Reflecting on my own personal trauma and journey as a teenager, I have developed a deep empathy for the struggles faced by girls in similar situations, recognizing the weight of the decisions forced upon them and the need for support and understanding.

Young girls globally, including Uganda, face economic struggles, cultural norms, and societal pressures.

They confront tough choices like risking HIV due to gender inequality, leading to high infection rates. According to UNAIDS, 4,200 new HIV infections occur weekly among girls aged 15-24.

Teenage pregnancy is also alarming, with 25% of Ugandan teens affected, leading to limited opportunities. Urgent interventions are needed to empower these girls and break barriers for a brighter future.

This situation demands more than just our sympathy; it requires our empathy, understanding, and deliberate action.

As someone deeply concerned with the well-being and empowerment of young girls, I believe it is crucial to offer tangible solutions and strategies to address the challenges they face.

To create a supportive environment for these girls and provide them with the opportunities they deserve, we need to implement policies, programs, and initiatives that make a real difference.

One tangible solution is the implementation of comprehensive sex education programs in schools, ensuring that girls receive accurate information about their sexual and reproductive health rights and options.

Being well-informed can empower them to make informed choices about their bodies and futures.

We must back initiatives promoting gender equality, empowering girls to overcome societal barriers. Improving education access via scholarships, safe transport, and better school facilities prevents early marriage, allowing girls to pursue dreams.

Additionally, specialized healthcare centers providing tailored reproductive health services, family planning, and HIV prevention are crucial.

Advocacy and collaboration among governments, communities, and non-profits are vital in shaping a brighter future, empowering Ugandan girls to shape their destinies.

In the depths of your heart, I urge you to realize the immense influence you hold over the world. It goes beyond mere donations or raising awareness - it requires us to go deeper.

We have the power to shape society's perception of women and their bodies, especially among young boys and men.

By offering guidance, being mentors, and demonstrating unwavering commitment to instilling responsibility in the next generation, we can lay the groundwork for a future where no girl has to endure the unimaginable choices that burden them today.

Let us come together, using our strength, to create a world where every girl is free from those soul-wrenching dilemmas and can embrace a future filled with boundless opportunities.

Victoria Sibiya

@Victoria_Sibiya