President Yoweri Museveni has called on young people to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent the spread of HIV, emphasizing abstinence, responsible behavior, and proper medical care.
His message was delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo during the World AIDS Day commemoration held on Monday in Bushenyi District.
President Museveni highlighted the role of alcohol, drugs, and excessive social media use in influencing risky behaviors that increase the likelihood of HIV infection.
“HIV is acquired through risky sexual behaviors. If you avoid these behaviors, you will not get infected. Abstain from sex and focus on your studies until you are ready to deal with the consequences of sexual activity,” Museveni said.
He further urged young people to avoid multiple sexual partners and substance abuse, noting that these impair judgment and lead to life-long consequences.
“Verify information from reliable sources and do not waste time on social media. Engage in sports and exercise to lead a disciplined and healthy life,” he added.
Addressing mothers living with HIV, Museveni emphasized the importance of medical care to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus.
“If a mother is HIV positive, she will be given medication to protect her unborn and newborn child. This is crucial in closing the gap on mother-to-child transmission in Uganda,” he said.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing HIV medication to all people living with the virus. “Despite global cuts in donor aid, Uganda will continue to protect the gains we have made in the fight against HIV,” Museveni noted.
Highlighting the importance of education in HIV prevention, Museveni urged families and communities to keep adolescent girls in school, noting that extended education reduces the risk of early pregnancies, child marriage, and HIV infection.
“Completion of primary and secondary education is protective, especially for girls. Staying longer in school shields them from early pregnancies and HIV infection. The government remains committed to ensuring universal primary and secondary education under the ‘Bonabasome’ initiative,” he added.
Museveni’s address comes as Uganda continues efforts to reduce new HIV infections and improve the health and well-being of its population, particularly among young people.