Uganda Urged to Combat HIV Stigma and Raise Awareness in World AIDS Day Campaign

Summary:

• Ugandans are being urged to end HIV-related stigma and focus on raising awareness, as part of the IKnowKati campaign, organized by Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) and the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) for World AIDS Day. Key figures, including RAHU’s Benson Muhindo and UNMF President Eddy Kenzo, emphasized the important role of musicians in combating stigma and promoting HIV awareness.

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Ugandans have been called upon to put an end to HIV-related stigma and focus on raising awareness about the disease, as part of a joint effort between Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) and the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF). The call was made during this year’s annual IKnowKati campaign, held on Tuesday at A’lure Suites, in commemoration of World AIDS Day.

Benson Muhindo, Acting Country Director of Reach A Hand Uganda, emphasized that raising awareness is key to Uganda’s goal of eliminating HIV by 2030. He highlighted the crucial role of artists, particularly musicians, in tackling stigma and spreading awareness, given their massive audiences.

“Artists can be game changers in the fight against HIV/AIDS. They have a unique opportunity to leverage their platforms to educate and inform,” Muhindo said. He expressed concern over the rising number of HIV cases among young people, noting that collaborating with musicians—whose music resonates with the youth—could significantly amplify the message.

Muhindo also addressed emerging lifestyle trends, such as the rise of massage parlors and saunas, which he believes are increasing vulnerability to HIV. He stressed the importance of reaching out to those working in these sectors with critical awareness campaigns.

“We have to continue ramping up our efforts,” Muhindo said. “People are vulnerable in these new environments, and we need to ensure that HIV education reaches everyone, no matter their lifestyle.”

The event also highlighted the importance of influential public figures speaking out about their experiences with HIV. Muhindo praised musicians who have openly shared their HIV status, recognizing their significant contribution to reducing stigma.

Eddy Kenzo, President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, welcomed the partnership with RAHU, stressing that musicians’ platforms have the power to spread vital messages to wide audiences. He urged people to stop stigmatizing those living with HIV and to offer them love and support.

“HIV is real, but it’s not the end of the world,” Kenzo said. “With proper care and medication, anyone can live a happy and fulfilling life. Let’s put an end to HIV stigma and focus on awareness, education, and support.”

Kenzo also urged fellow musicians and public figures to adopt regular HIV testing, as it plays a vital role in maintaining good health and awareness.

Canon Gideon Byamugisha, who has been living with HIV for 32 years, also took part in the campaign, underscoring the importance of ending stigma and promoting acceptance. He encouraged people to know their HIV status and emphasized that over 20,000 individuals living with HIV in Uganda are unaware of their status.

The IKnowKati2024 event included a series of health activities, such as free health check-ups, HIV testing, door-to-door health talks, and counseling. The event concluded with a candlelight vigil to honor those lost to HIV, followed by fireworks and a song of hope to continue the fight for greater awareness and support for those affected by HIV.