President Yoweri Museveni has called out Ugandans to stop stigmatizing those living with HIV saying it is a virus that can only be transmitted through intercourse.
Museveni made the remarks while delivering a speech to commemorate the World AIDS Day on December 01 2022. He said individuals living with HIV can still engage in activities like those without it.
“To all of you, avoid stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. It only escalates the problem. It is the responsibility of each one of us to ensure that no child is born with HIV, no person gets infected with HIV, no person dies of AIDs and no one is stigmatised.”
“Don’t discriminate against people living with HIV because they are not a danger to you as long as you relate with them normally, and they can do many things other people do,” Museveni said.
He however, challenged Ugandans that the best solution to eradicating further infections is through prevention methods including abstainence.
Museveni said the reason for prevention is that if you get infected, even when you are placed on treatments, some activities need physical exertion that one might not manage.
“Ugandans, my message on AIDS is prevention. Prevention avoids so many other complications and preserves the full potential of our youth,” Museveni said.
He revealed the main source of AIDS now appears to be behaviour related, where individuals do what they shouldn’t do and then get infected.
“Therefore I’m determined to insist on this behaviour change.President Museveni: If you get infected, then get tested, get treatment, and stick to the treatment.”
“I also want to tell my fellow men not to live reckless lifestyles. Be responsible for your lives, your partners and your families. My fellow parents, you are the foundation of your families and your children depend on you for their safety and well-being,” Museveni added.
He however, commended the United States government for the support they have extended to Uganda over time on issues of AIDS prevention in addition to other diseases.
Every year, Uganda joins the rest of the World to mark World AIDS day and to raise awareness of the AIDS pandemic and remember those who have died of the disease.
It is approximately 41 years since the first case of AIDS was discovered in Uganda in Kalisizo hospital.
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