Gov't Calls for Renewed Vigilance and Solidarity in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS
daphine nantambi 
The Inter-Religious Family Festival isn't the only significant event on Uganda's calendar this May. On the 17th of the month, Ugandans will unite in commemoration of the International Candlelight Memorial Day, an annual event dating back to 1983.
The memorial day, organized by the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) in partnership with global peace organizations and the Ugandan government, aims to mobilize communities in solidarity with families affected by HIV/AIDS.
With the theme "Ending AIDS: Keeping Communities at the Centre," this year's event underscores the pivotal role of communities in the fight against the disease.
Uganda has a storied history in the battle against HIV/AIDS, with grassroots initiatives playing a crucial role in its early response. Organizations like The AIDS Support Organisation (TASO), founded during the height of the crisis, continue to provide vital services to those affected by the disease.
The government, under the leadership of His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has also been lauded for its visionary leadership in tackling HIV/AIDS, contributing to significant progress in prevention and control efforts. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, with higher prevalence rates among certain demographics, particularly women and young people.
In a press conference held to address these issues, Hon. Kyofa Kabuye, representing the Minister in Charge of the Presidency, emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring a healthy population. Strategies include supporting interventions to reduce inequalities, particularly among adolescents and young women, and mainstreaming HIV/AIDS in all sectors.
A call to action was issued to both state and non-state actors to prioritize HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness efforts. The Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development has already mandated budget allocations for HIV interventions, signaling a concerted effort at the highest levels of government.
International partners, including UNAIDS and development organizations have been thanked for their support and urged to continue collaborating with the Ugandan government towards the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
