Teso Region Equipped with Bicycles for HIV Epidemic Control
In an effort to support the fight against HIV/AIDS in Uganda and reach government targets for 2030, the AIDS Health Care Foundation Uganda Cares (AHCF-UC) has distributed 110 bicycles to the Teso region. These bicycles aim to aid community health workers, expert clients, and peer supporters in reaching remote areas.
Dr. Bukirwa Agnes, the regional director of Uganda Cares Eastern region, emphasized the importance of these bicycles in identifying individuals who may still be suffering from HIV/AIDS. As the epidemic matures in the country, it becomes increasingly challenging to locate and assist those who have not been reached.
A significant portion of people living with HIV/AIDS has successfully suppressed their viral loads. However, approximately 18 percent face difficulties, such as being in remote areas, transferring to other places, or discontinuing treatment. The distribution of bicycles to community health workers is expected to facilitate follow-up and support for these individuals.
Several districts in Teso, including Soroti, Kumi, Ngora, Kapelebyong, Amuria, and Serere, benefited from this initiative. Each hospital received bicycles to aid their community health workers in providing care and assistance.
The distribution of bicycles was met with appreciation from the beneficiaries who have faced challenges in reaching individuals with HIV in remote communities. The value of each bicycle is estimated at 780,000 Ugandan shillings.
Uganda has made significant progress in combating the HIV and AIDS epidemic, achieving the 90-90-90 targets by the end of 2020. However, continued efforts are necessary to reach individuals in remote areas and ensure they receive the required support and treatment.
The 2020 Uganda Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA) reported a current HIV prevalence of 5.5 percent among adults aged 15 to 49 in Uganda. Although there has been a slight decrease in prevalence since 2016-17, there is still work to be done to address the epidemic across various regions and age groups.
HIV Prevalence by Region:
- Karamoja: 2.1%
- West-Nile: 2.8%
- Mid-Eastern: 4.2%
- Teso: 4.2%
- Busoga: 4.5%
- Mid-Western: 5.5%
- Kampala: 6.0%
- Central 2: 6.2%
- South Western: 6.3%
- Mid North: 7.6%
- Central 1: 8.1%
HIV Prevalence by Age:
- Lowest among 15 to 19-year-olds
- Highest among men in the 45 to 49-year age group (11.1%)
- Highest among women in the 50 to 54-year age group (13.6%)
Efforts to combat HIV in Uganda are ongoing, with a focus on reaching those in need, particularly in remote regions like Teso.
