Mbarara, Uganda – A staggering 14.4% of individuals in Mbarara District are living with HIV, according to a recent report by the Uganda AIDS Commission. This alarming rate surpasses the national average of 5.1%, sparking concerns about the escalating epidemic in the region.
Dr. Steven Asiimwe, HIV Prevention Officer at the Uganda AIDS Commission, revealed that most transmissions occur among individuals aged 20-49, with young girls and women being disproportionately affected. “Economic hardships are driving young girls into commercial sex, increasing their vulnerability to HIV infection,” explained Dorcus Twinabeitu, Mbarara City HIV Focal Person.
The report highlights the following HIV prevalence rates in various districts:
– Mbarara District: 14.4%
– Bushenyi: 9.2%
– Kiruhura: 9.5%
– Mbarara City: 8.1%
– Ibanda: 7.3%
– Sheema: 7.5%
– Ntungamo: 5.9%
– Rubirizi: 6.1%
– Mitooma: 4.1%
– Buhweju: 3.8%
– Isingiro: 3.0%
The southwestern region, which includes Mbarara, has an HIV prevalence rate of 6.3%, exceeding the national average.
As of March 2024, 31,852 individuals in Mbarara City were living with HIV, a significant increase from the 31,764 recorded between October and December 2023.
The Uganda AIDS Commission has intensified efforts to combat the epidemic, engaging journalists and stakeholders in the presidential fast-track initiative to end HIV by 2030.
The alarming surge in HIV prevalence in Mbarara District demands immediate attention and collective action to address the epidemic’s socioeconomic drivers.
Credit: The Source..