MBARARA CITY, Uganda — Mbarara City registered a total of 1,678 new HIV infections between January and December 2025, with the majority of cases recorded among adults and young people, according to city health officials.
The city’s HIV focal person, Dorcus Twinabaitu, revealed that the data shows a worrying trend in infections among the productive age groups.
According to the breakdown, 42 cases were recorded among children aged 0–14 years, while 448 infections were reported among youths aged 15–24. The highest number of new infections, 883, was registered among adults aged 25–39, followed by 305 cases among people aged 40 years and above.
Twinabaitu noted that the high number of infections among young people and adults highlights the need for strengthened HIV prevention campaigns, increased testing, and greater community awareness.
She urged residents to embrace preventive measures such as regular HIV testing, safe sexual practices, and adherence to treatment for those living with HIV in order to reduce new infections.
Health authorities in the city also continue to encourage communities to fight stigma and support individuals living with HIV so they can access treatment and live healthy lives.
Officials say intensified public health education, youth engagement programs, and improved access to HIV services will be key in reducing the rate of new infections in Mbarara City.
