Ibanda District leaders are expressing concern over a growing number of young people living with HIV/AIDS who are abandoning their medication. Dr. Julius Bamwine, the district health officer, highlights a decrease in drug adherence among youth from 7 percent in 2022 to 5 percent in 2023, contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS, particularly in urban areas like Igorora Town Council, Ibanda Town, and Ishongororo Town Council.
Factors such as employment and school attendance challenge youth in adhering to medication schedules, leading to missed doses. To address this, health workers maintain communication with youth via phone and provide medication delivery services. Wilbroad Atukunzire, a counselor with The AIDS Support Organization (TASO), notes the challenge of youth missing their second dose and advocates for the creation of youth-friendly corners in health facilities to encourage medication uptake.
Caroline Arituha, the district female youth counselor, emphasizes the importance of combating stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. She stresses that HIV diagnosis is not the end of life, urging youth to continue with treatment for a healthy life. Arituha collaborates with health counselors and media platforms, including radios, to engage youth and their caretakers.
Happy Herbert Mayanja, the district chairperson, underscores the efficacy of HIV medication in prolonging life, urging youth to adhere to treatment. He emphasizes the government’s provision of facilities for HIV/AIDS management, highlighting the potential for a positive and healthy life with proper medication adherence.
