Flavia Kyomukama: Turning HIV Diagnosis into Lifelong Advocacy

Flavia Kyomukama’s life has been profoundly shaped by loss and resilience. The executive director of the National Forum for People Living with HIV/AIDS Networks in Uganda (NAFOPHANU) has dedicated decades to advocating for those affected by HIV, using her own journey as a catalyst.

Her path began with immense personal sorrow. In 1989, she lost her infant twins. Years later, her son, diagnosed with HIV at 15, passed away at 28 after a prolonged illness. A subsequent child also died in infancy. These deeply painful experiences, however, fueled a determination to confront the stigma and challenges surrounding HIV.

Around the time of her youngest son’s death, Kyomukama was diagnosed with tuberculosis and advised to undergo an HIV test. The positive result, rather than breaking her, marked a turning point. With support from her husband and the nascent counseling services available, she resolved to live positively.

Navigating early HIV and TB treatment in the 1990s was arduous. She recalls the painful injections for TB treatment but later benefited from oral medication trials. Her journey into HIV advocacy began when she trained as an HIV/AIDS counselor while working as a teacher. This led her to participate in programs aimed at preventing mother-to-child transmission, successfully giving birth to an HIV-negative son in 1994/95.

After leaving teaching and further education, Kyomukama co-founded an NGO in 2000 to raise awareness and promote positive living. She bravely disclosed her status publicly, becoming a visible advocate on radio and television. Her involvement grew through organizations like the National Community of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda (NACWOLA), leading to international work with UNESCO and UNFIP.

In 2003, she was instrumental in organizing a conference that paved the way for NAFOPHANU’s formation, aiming to empower people living with HIV to participate in decisions affecting them. Despite facing funding challenges and operational hurdles, NAFOPHANU remains committed to its mission.

Kyomukama’s message is clear: an HIV diagnosis is not a death sentence. She urges young people, both HIV-negative and positive, to take preventive measures, adhere to treatment, and protect their health and relationships. Her enduring advocacy underscores the ongoing need for support and empowerment for the approximately 1.5 million Ugandans living with HIV.

For the original article, please visit https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/how-hiv-rewrote-my-life-story-5575066