HIV Infections surge among Uganda’s youth

As Uganda observed World AIDS Day, a troubling reality emerged: the country is at risk of missing its 2025 HIV reduction targets, with youth emerging as the most vulnerable group.

Despite decades of progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the rising number of infections among adolescents and young adults has experts alarmed.

According to the Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC), nearly 40% of new HIV infections in the country occur among people aged 15 to 24. This is a stark contrast to the progress made in previous years, where concerted efforts led to significant declines in infection rates across the broader population. Unfortunately, many youths today no longer view HIV as a pressing threat, leading to risky behaviors that put their health—and the nation’s future—at stake.

Dr. Beatrice Nakimuli, a senior researcher on issues concerning HIV/AIDs, explains that many young people no longer see HIV as a serious health concern, especially with the widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART).

“With ART, people can live longer, healthier lives, and this has contributed to a sense of complacency. Young people think that HIV is no longer life-threatening, which leads them to engage in risky behaviors,” Dr. Nakimuli says.

One such risky behavior is the declining use of condoms among sexually active adolescents. A recent study by the Ministry of Health showed a 15% drop in condom usage among young people over the past five years. Alongside this, awareness about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)—a medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV—remains low. For many young people, these preventive measures are either unknown or inaccessible.

Stella, a 19-year-old university student, admits that while HIV is discussed in health classes, it’s often overshadowed by topics such as pregnancy prevention.

“We don’t hear much about HIV these days. It’s mostly about avoiding pregnancies. Condoms are available, but I think a lot of people don’t use them consistently because they feel invincible, especially with treatments available,” she explains.

This shift in perception is exacerbated by the spread of misinformation. Social media, while a powerful tool for connecting youth, is also a breeding ground for myths and misconceptions about HIV prevention and treatment.

Dr. Nakimuli points out that false claims, such as the ability to identify HIV-positive individuals by their appearance or the effectiveness of herbal remedies, make it harder for young people to make informed decisions about their health.

The lack of comprehensive sex education in schools is also a contributing factor. In many cases, adolescents are taught to abstain from sex, but they receive little guidance on how to protect themselves if they do engage in sexual activity. Mugisha John, a 17-year-old secondary school student, shares that his school’s sexual education classes mostly focus on abstinence and rarely discuss HIV prevention in any detail. “It’s like we’re expected to figure it out ourselves,” he says.

To address this growing crisis, experts stress the importance of creating youth-friendly health services that provide confidential HIV testing, counseling, and treatment.

“We need services that are not only accessible but also tailored to the unique needs of young people,” says Dr. Nakimuli. “It’s crucial to create safe spaces where they can learn, ask questions, and get the support they need.”

Additionally, campaigns that resonate with young people’s realities—using the platforms they frequent, like social media—can help dispel myths and raise awareness about HIV prevention. “We need to meet young people where they are,” Dr. Nakimuli asserts. “Digital platforms are the best way to reach them and provide accurate information.”

As Uganda faces the challenge of addressing the rising HIV rates among its youth, the importance of investing in their health cannot be overstated. If Uganda is to reach its 2025 HIV reduction targets, it will require a concerted effort to educate and empower its young people, providing them with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from HIV.

“The youth are the backbone of this country’s future,” concludes Dr. Nakimuli. “We must prioritize their health and well-being if we are to secure a healthier, brighter future for Uganda.”