By Victor Turinawe
Former Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Commissioner of Audit and Compliance, Dr. Protazio Begumisa, has cautioned the youth to be vigilant against HIV/AIDS in light of the United States’ decision to withdraw USAID funding, which previously supported HIV medication programmes in Uganda.
Speaking during the World Social Work Day celebrations at Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham University College on Friday, Begumisa expressed concerns over the impact of reduced international aid on the country’s fight against HIV/AIDS. The event, held in the campus Multipurpose Hall in Northern Division, Kabale Municipality, was themed “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being”.
Begumisa warned that with the withdrawal of external financial support, Uganda could see a rise in new HIV infections due to limited access to life-saving antiretroviral drugs and preventive measures.
“We are facing a serious challenge because most of the support Uganda has been receiving for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment came from foreign donors. With USAID pulling out, many people might struggle to access medication, leading to a potential increase in infections,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that HIV testing services have become more accessible, even in small trading centres, and urged young people to take advantage of these facilities. He noted that testing is now affordable, costing around UGX 5,000, and that portable self-testing kits are available for private use.
“I encourage young people to know their status. Today, testing is easier than ever, and there are even portable kits that allow you to test yourself privately before making any decisions about sexual activity,” Begumisa added.
While advocating for abstinence as the most effective means of prevention, he urged those who choose to be sexually active to prioritise regular testing and safe practices to protect themselves and their partners.
Begumisa also highlighted Uganda’s progress in reducing HIV infections over the past two decades, attributing much of the success to the availability of antiretroviral treatment (ART) programmes. However, he cautioned that the gains made could be reversed if young people do not take responsibility for their health in the wake of declining donor support.
“For the past 20 years, Uganda has made great strides in fighting HIV/AIDS. The availability of drugs has helped control the virus, but with funding dwindling, we need to be more cautious than ever. Young people must take personal responsibility for their health,” he emphasised.
He raised concerns over the growing trend of older men preying on young girls, a factor he said significantly contributes to the spread of HIV among adolescents.
“We need to protect young girls, as many are falling victim to relationships with older men. These situations expose them to a higher risk of infection,” he noted.
Begumisa also reflected on past efforts by the Ugandan government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in raising HIV/AIDS awareness, which had led to a national awareness rate of 70-80%. He stressed the importance of continuing education efforts to ensure young people understand the risks of HIV and the importance of prevention.
The World Social Work Day celebrations attracted students, lecturers, and social workers from different institutions. Speakers at the event underscored the need for youth involvement in health awareness campaigns and urged them to be proactive in fighting HIV/AIDS in their communities.
As Uganda grapples with funding cuts in the health sector, stakeholders continue to call for increased domestic investment in HIV/AIDS programmes to safeguard the gains made in combating the epidemic.
