By Ceaser Odongo, Radio Wa, Lira Diocese
The Minister of Health and Woman Member of Parliament for Lira City, Jane Ruth Aceng, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending HIV/AIDS in Uganda by 2030.
Dr. Aceng made the remarks on Friday while officiating at the national launch of Lenacapavir injectable PrEP at Akii Bua Memorial Stadium, near Lira Regional Referral Hospital.
She noted that Uganda has made significant progress in reducing new HIV infections from 96,000 cases in 2010 to 37,000 by the end of 2025, largely due to expanded access to treatment, now reaching over 98% of the 1.9 million people living with HIV.
Despite this progress, Dr. Aceng cautioned that the fight is far from over, revealing that about 100 new infections still occur daily, with 33% affecting young people, particularly adolescent girls and young women. She emphasized the importance of honesty and awareness in preventing further spread.
The minister urged the public to embrace Lenacapavir, a long-acting preventive injection administered only twice a year, describing it as a major breakthrough that reduces the burden of daily medication. However, she stressed that it is strictly a preventive measure not a cure or treatment and encouraged adherence to the ABC prevention strategy, especially abstinence among young people.
Dr. Aceng also raised concern that more than 150,000 Ugandans are living with HIV without knowing their status, calling for increased routine testing to curb transmission.
Meanwhile, Cissy Kityo Mutuluuza, Executive Director of the Joint Clinical Research Centre, clarified that Lenacapavir is only administered to HIV-negative individuals. She added that ongoing research is underway to develop similar long-acting injectable treatments for people living with HIV, expected by the second quarter of next year.
The Acting Director of Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Dr. Andrew Odur, emphasized the need for clear public education to prevent misuse of the drug, warning against misconceptions that it permits risky behavior.
Lira Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole noted that although recent data shows a decline, Lira City still records relatively high HIV prevalence due to its population dynamics.
The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including Mikael Cleverly, Richard Kabanda, and Charles Olaro, alongside other health partners.
The introduction of Lenacapavir marks a significant step in Uganda’s HIV prevention efforts, but sustained awareness, responsible behavior, and widespread testing remain critical to achieving the goal of ending HIV/AIDS by 2030
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