The Deputy Inspector General of Government, Anne Twino, has called on the Uganda AIDS Commission to place integrity at the core of efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, emphasizing that ethical conduct is essential for the success of public health programs.
Speaking during a meeting at her office with the Commission’s Director General, Dr. Nelson Musoba, Twino stressed that integrity is not just a moral principle but a practical driver of effective HIV/AIDS interventions. Dr. Musoba had paid a courtesy visit and formally invited her to deliver a keynote address at the upcoming Candlelight Memorial Day scheduled for May 19, 2026, at Kitante Primary School under the theme “Ending AIDS by 2030: Embracing the Role of Women.”
Twino noted that the fight against HIV/AIDS relies heavily on trust, accurate information, and the fair use of resources. She explained that when integrity is upheld, programs function as intended and deliver meaningful results. She further highlighted that integrity begins at the individual level, urging people to be honest about their HIV status, undergo regular testing, and adhere strictly to treatment plans if diagnosed positive.
She also raised concern about practices that may unintentionally fuel stigma, particularly at the local government level. Twino pointed out that some antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics segregate HIV-positive individuals by assigning them specific days or locations to collect medication, a system she warned could reinforce discrimination instead of promoting inclusivity.
On the progress made, Dr. Musoba revealed that Uganda has significantly reduced HIV/AIDS prevalence from 18 percent in the 1980s to about 4.9 percent in the last decade, attributing this achievement to strong partnerships and sustained government support. He commended Yoweri Museveni for his continued leadership in supporting initiatives aimed at combating the epidemic.
“We want to commend President Museveni for his visionary leadership, as he has greatly supported initiatives and partnerships intended to fight HIV/AIDS,” he said.
Despite these gains, Dr. Musoba acknowledged that HIV prevalence remains high among young people, posing a critical challenge to the country’s goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
In response, Twino urged the Commission to strengthen HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns in schools by moving beyond routine messaging. She encouraged the use of real-life experiences and research-based insights to engage students more effectively, arguing that honest and data-driven communication can reshape attitudes, promote responsibility, and protect young people from infection.
She reaffirmed the Inspectorate of Government’s commitment to supporting the national HIV/AIDS response, expressing optimism that embedding integrity across all levels of intervention will enhance impact and contribute to a healthier, stigma-free society.
(sun rise reports)
