Uganda Warns of Persistent HIV Infections Among Young Women Ahead of 2030 Target

Uganda continues to make notable strides in HIV testing, treatment, and care, yet persistent new infections among adolescent girls and young women threaten to derail progress toward the 2030 global target of ending AIDS as a public health threat.

Speaking on the national health outlook, Uganda AIDS Commission Board Chairperson Ruth Senyonyi highlighted that while the country boasts strong metrics in viral suppression and treatment uptake—with roughly 99.1 percent of diagnosed individuals on antiretroviral therapy—about 34,000 new infections still occur annually. Alarmingly, more than a third of these new cases affect young women and adolescent girls, underscoring critical gaps in prevention and communication.

To tackle these challenges head-on, stakeholders will converge at Mbarara University of Science and Technology from November 16 to 18 for the National HIV and AIDS Symposium. Operating under the theme “Sustainable Interventions to End AIDS as a Public Health Threat by 2030,” the annual gathering brings together healthcare workers, researchers, and policymakers to evaluate current strategies and design evidence-based solutions.

Beyond prevention gaps, the symposium will place a heavy focus on long-term financial independence. With shifting donor landscapes, Senyonyi stressed the urgency of bolstering domestic financing to protect the health gains achieved over the past four decades. The Uganda AIDS Commission has already formulated an HIV Sustainability Roadmap aimed at transitioning the national response toward sustainable local funding.

Additionally, the upcoming dialogue will delve into emerging HIV cure research, addressing the scientific, ethical, and community considerations vital for preventing misinformation. Organizers hope the collaborative discussions will shape actionable pathways for Uganda’s public health future.

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