)
)
Uganda has recorded a concerning 38,000 new HIV infections, with the majority of these cases found in youths aged 15 to 24.
Data taken from 2023 shows this age group accounts for a third of the new infections, according to Dr Nelson Musoba, the Director-General of the Uganda AIDS Commission.
Speaking ahead of the International Candlelight Memorial, Dr Musoba expressed concern over the rising number of young people becoming infected, particularly among high-risk groups.
Read: Meet Ugandan scientist behind HIV jab that offers 100% protection for women
)
)
)
High-Risk Groups and Their Vulnerabilities
He said the majority of the new infections were found among sex workers, men who have sex with men, truck drivers, and individuals in fishing communities.
These groups are considered at higher risk due to the nature of their work and lifestyle.
“We shouldn’t be seeing new infections given the information we have and the interventions in place,” Dr Musoba said.
“However, we are facing the challenge of reaching all segments of the population with vital health messages.”
While the Uganda AIDS Commission continues to collaborate with UNAIDS to gather more data for 2024, the 38,000 new cases in 2023 remain alarmingly high.
Dr Musoba expressed particular concern for the large number of girls among the new infections, stating that out of every five new cases, four are girls.
This demographic represents a significant threat to Uganda’s health and future workforce, especially as the country aims for modernisation, productivity, and industrialisation.
As Uganda prepares to observe the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on May 18, 2025, Dr Musoba’s comments serve as a reminder of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS and the importance of continued education, prevention, and intervention efforts.