18. HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment

Like many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, Uganda experienced a rapid increase in HIV incidence and a generalization of the epidemic in the late 1980s and early 1990s. By 1991, overall HIV prevalence was 21 percent (Low-Beer and Stoneburner 2003); however, the trajectory of Uganda's epidemic has differed markedly from that of its neighbors. By 2001, overall HIV prevalence had fallen to 5 percent, with dramatic decreases in incidence among key populations, such as soldiers, pregnant women, and young women (USAID 2002). Critical components of Uganda's HIV prevention program include

• having strong political support, especially from President Yoweri Museveni

• implementing interventions to empower women and girls

• having a strong focus on youths

• engaging in active efforts to fight stigma and discrimination

• emphasizing open communication about HIV/AIDS

• engaging the religious leadership and faith-based organizations

• creating Africa's first confidential VCT interventions

• emphasizing STI control and prevention.

Source: Authors.