Government commitment, effective partnerships and a coordinated approach to research, treatment and prevention have been identified as the pillars of Uganda’s success in combating HIV/AIDS.
This was revealed by the Director General of the Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC), Dr. Nelson Musoba, during a briefing at the Uganda Media Centre ahead of World AIDS Day on December 1st and the National HIV and AIDS Symposium scheduled for November 26th–28th, 2025.
Dr. Musoba outlined key achievements, including a major drop in new HIV infections from 96,000 in 2010 to 37,000 in 2024 alongside improved access to treatment, which now stands at 97%.
He added that prevention programs have been strengthened nationwide.
By 2024, Uganda had 1.5 million people living with HIV, including 930,000 women and 570,000 men, reflecting a national prevalence rate of 4.9%.
Among young people aged 15–24, new infections declined from 33,000 in 2010 to 14,000 in 2024, marking a 57% reduction.
However, disparities persist: women aged 15–49 continue to experience a higher prevalence (6.4%) compared to men in the same age group (3.4%).
AIDS-related deaths have also continued to decrease significantly. Dr. Musoba reported that 20,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses in 2024, down from 56,000 in 2010—a 63% reduction.
Despite these gains, he expressed concern about the rising number of infants born with HIV.
Mother-to-child transmission currently accounts for 4,700 new infections annually; largely due to expectant mothers avoiding antenatal services after learning they are HIV-positive.
Meanwhile, UNAIDS Country Director Jacqueline Makokha praised the government and development partners for their coordinated and sustained efforts.
She noted that, although challenges remain, these collaborations have played a central role in Uganda’s progress against the epidemic.
By Olivia Nabaggala
18th Nov 2025
END
