The Kingdom of Buganda has joined the global community in renewing its commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Staff from all kingdom ministries and departments convened at the kingdom headquarters in Bulange, Mengo, to participate in a collective awareness drive and to strengthen public messaging on the importance of ending the epidemic.
Speaking at the event, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, reminded the people of Buganda that since the Kabaka is a continental champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, his subjects must work together to advance his mission.
He emphasized the kingdom’s goal of ensuring that by the year 2030, HIV/AIDS transmission is drastically reduced and the epidemic is brought under control.
Mayiga cited recent statistics indicating that women are disproportionately affected by new HIV infections compared to men.
He urged women to be assertive and to resist pressure from men who attempt to lure them into unsafe sexual activity.
“HIV spreads mainly through sexual contact. Men often initiate these encounters, yet it is women who are increasingly affected. So I encourage women—learn to say no. A man may get upset when refused, but anger does not kill. HIV does,” he said.
Mayiga further encouraged the public to be proactive about their health, to get tested regularly, and for those already living with HIV to seek and adhere to treatment.
Representing the Uganda AIDS Commission, EP Secretariat Coordinator at Commission, Shaban Mugerwa, expressed gratitude to the Kabaka for his devoted leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
He clarified misinformation circulating among youth claiming that HIV will be completely eradicated by 2030, eliminating the need for condoms.
Mugerwa stressed that the target focuses on ending new HIV infections, not eliminating the virus entirely.
“By 2030, the aim is to ensure that HIV is no longer being transmitted. People living with HIV will still exist, and prevention will remain essential,” he said.
The Second Deputy County Cheif, Fiona Nakalinda Kalinda, appealed to all individuals involved in caring for expectant mothers to encourage them to deliver in health facilities, which significantly reduces the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission.
She also urged young people to remain vigilant, noting that youth continue to be at the highest risk of infection and must avoid falling into risky situations that expose them to HIV.
One of the speakers, Onyaki Joel, born with HIV, shared his personal journey. He learned of his HIV status at the age of ten and initially lost hope. However, through counseling and support, he regained strength and now leads a productive and fulfilling life.
According to 2024 national statistics, Uganda currently has 1.5 million people living with HIV including 930,000 women, 570,000 men, 71,000 children
The event was attended by senior Kingdom officials, including the Kingdom’s Attorney General, Christopher Bwanika; Minister of Social services (Education; Health) and Nnaabagereka’s office, Cotilda Nakate Kikomeko; Minister for Lukiiko, Information, Cabinet Affairs, Protocol and Offical Kingdom Spokesperson, Noah Kiyimba; Minister of Information, Mobilization and Kingdom Spokesperson, Israel Kazibwe Kitooke; CEOs of Kingdom agencies, and staff from all Buganda Kingdom institutions.