The HIV/Aids prevalence in Omoro district continues to worry leaders, as report by Uganda Aids Commission returns an 8% infection in Omoro, higher than the already alarming 7% infection for the entire Acholi sub region, and almost doubling UGanda’s overall national prevalence at 4.5%.
The report shows that last year Omoro recorded 210 new cases of HIV infections, all of whom were enrolled for treatment at 29 different health facilities in the district. One death was reported in te same year, attribted to nonusage of ARVs
.While presenting the report on HIV AIDS during commemoration of world AIDS day for Omoro district on Wednesday 10th Dec at Opit primary, Mr. Victor Rwengabo from Uganda Aids Commission said Uganda is struggling to prevent new HIV infections by 2030, as new infection remains unacceptably high.
He reiterated that 1.5 million individuals affected, with 1.3 million on treatment.
The country has made significant progress, reducing HIV prevalence to 4.9% and new infections from 94,000 in the year 2010 to 37,000 in the year 2024, AIDS-related deaths have also declined from 54,000 to 20,000 during the same period.
However, challenges persist, as omen are disproportionately affected, accounting for 930,000 cases, while men account for 570,000.
Young women aged 15-24 are more vulnerable, making up 78% of new infections among adolescents during the same period.
Jackson Okello, the chairperson people leaving with HIV Omoro district, blames the key factors hindering presentation of HIV AIDS in Uganda as domestic violence, male dominance, and lack of negotiation power for women to use condoms or HIV testing before sex, traditional practices like widow inheritance, polygamy, and sex-based cleansing rituals.
“Other factors are fear of stigma and discrimination which prevent people from seeking HIV testing, treatment, and disclosing their status,” Okello said.
To these he adds high alcohol consumption and substance abuse that contribute to risky behaviors and increased HIV transmission.
“These factors are interconnected and require a comprehensive approach to address the HIV epidemic in Uganda.” Okello said.
Meanwhile Mrs. Ladong Marry Atim, the Assistant district health officer Omoro district (ADHO) noted the same factors as causing higher percentage rate of HIV in Omoro district, saying sex accounts for 76% of new HIV infections, with multiple sexual partners and low condom use increasing the risk.
Oola Donato Olam. The chief administration officer Omoro district (CAO) said as Omoro district they stand together with government as Uganda looking forward to prevent HIV new infection by 2030.
“Omoro is drawing a suplimentary budget of 1.5 % to support HIV surveillance teams because they are not active due to financial challenges.” the CAO said.
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