Rising HIV Rates and New Strategies in Hoima District
The HIV prevalence rate in Hoima district has seen a significant increase, according to recent data. In 2023, the rate was estimated at 4.2 percent, but early 2025 reports show a rise to 9.6 percent. This is higher than the national average of 5 percent and is linked to factors such as increased population influx due to oil and gas exploration in the area.
Local leaders in Hoima District are now calling for new strategies to combat the rising rates, especially among young people. The district vice chairperson, Hellen Mulumba, highlighted that while various interventions have been implemented, they have not yielded the desired results. She emphasized the need for accessible testing methods for younger women and adolescent girls, who are disproportionately affected by the epidemic.
“Although it may be easy for a boy to buy a condom, it might not be easy for a girl to go to a pharmacy and ask for one. However, it can be easier for a girl to purchase HIV testing strips,” Mulumba noted. She believes that promoting self-testing could help reduce the spread of HIV, particularly among students aged 16 to 20 years.
Mulumba also expressed concern about school-going children who are born with HIV but are unaware of their status. “They are on medication, but their peers are not aware of this, leading to unsafe sexual practices,” she said. She urged the introduction of self-testing methods in schools to curb the spread of the disease.
Campaigns and Partnerships to Combat HIV/AIDS
A campaign titled ‘Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment’ is being piloted in three districts: Hoima, Nakaseke, and Buikwe. Funded by the Global Fund and implemented by The Aids Support Organisation (TASO)-Uganda, the initiative aims to address the growing issue of sexual abuse and exploitation, which hinders efforts to fight HIV/AIDS.
The senior Technical Advisor for prevention at TASO Uganda, Ms Irene Murungi, shared insights from the campaign. She mentioned that cases of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment have been documented, and actions will be taken to address these issues. Murungi also called on religious leaders to play a more active role in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“We often see indifference from religious institutions, which are expected to play a critical role. Our call is for them to amplify their voices and support the communities they serve,” she added.
Challenges and Multi-Faceted Solutions
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The lack of infrastructure in certain communities, such as fishing areas, contributes to the spread of the virus. Mulumba pointed out that many families live in cramped conditions without privacy, making it difficult to implement effective prevention measures.
Dr Vincent Bagambe, the director of Planning at the Uganda Aids Commission, stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to combating HIV/AIDS. He emphasized that no single intervention can solve the problem.
“There is no magic in the fight against HIV/AIDS. All interventions must be followed. The ABC model—abstain, be faithful, and use a condom—should be promoted as part of sex education,” Dr Bagambe said.
Community Engagement and Future Steps
The situation in Hoima District highlights the urgent need for community engagement and tailored solutions. By focusing on vulnerable groups, such as adolescent girls and young women, and involving all stakeholders—including religious leaders and local authorities—there is hope for a more effective response to the HIV/AIDS crisis.
As the fight continues, it is essential to maintain awareness, promote education, and ensure access to testing and treatment. Only through a collective effort can the rising rates of HIV be addressed and the health of the community improved.