By Jasper Ouni
DOKOLO. A one-day workshop was held with the theme of combating HIV infection rates with the help of community leaders.
According to the Uganda Harm Reduction Network national estimated magnitude of HIV new infection of 2019 about 1.5 million people were positive with 53,000 new infections, 21,000 Aids-related deaths and 85% adults on Antiretroviral (ARVs ) treatment.
A dialogue between cultural and religious leaders and the general public was held in Dokolo Town Council on Tuesday 9th November 2021 in which the participants cited Poverty, drunkenness, bad Cultural beliefs among others to be hindering treatment of HIV, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
They said the government should establish Active Youth Centres where youth and other community members can be talked to. Additionally, continuous sensitization through radio and drama acting among others can also be undertaken.
They also confirmed that locals still have fear seeking medical attention and others are dying due to ignorance. Kassim Otoo the Imam of Adeknino Mosque then advised locals to desist from cultural ways of treatment where uncertified herbs have continuously exposed natives to great medical complications leading to death. He adds that couples should strengthen their relationship so that their children are not able to suffer from problems caused by gender-based violence.
Ms Rose Erem the LC3 chairperson of Dokolo Town Council in her closing remarks noted that trainers should exercise their duty and create awareness up to the grassroots level. Erem encouraged ladies to fight barriers that hinder treatment of HIV, TB and Malaria in the community.
Esther Mirembe the Project Manager at Uganda Harm Reduction Network said community health empowerment is needed to help with the objective. She then asked religious and cultural leaders to actively participate in this infection reduction through sensitization within their areas and Uganda at large. END
