Mbarara City has recorded a total of 1,678 new HIV infections between January and December 2025, with the highest numbers reported among adults and youths, according to city health officials. The data, recently shared by Dorcus Twinabaitu, the city’s HIV focal person, highlights concerning trends that require urgent attention.
Of the total new infections, 42 cases were reported among children aged 0–14 years. While this number is relatively small compared to other age groups, it highlights the ongoing risk of mother-to-child transmission and the need for continued prevention efforts targeting families and pregnant women.
Youth aged 15–24 years accounted for 448 of the new HIV infections, making them the second most affected age group in the city. Health experts note that this age group is particularly vulnerable due to risky behaviors, peer pressure, and limited access to comprehensive sexual health education.
Adults aged 25–39 years bore the heaviest burden, with 883 new HIV infections recorded during the year. This group represents the most sexually active segment of the population, which underscores the need for stronger awareness campaigns, regular testing, and access to prevention methods such as condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
People aged 40 years and above accounted for 305 of the new cases. Experts emphasize that HIV does not discriminate by age, and older adults must also be included in prevention and treatment programs, especially since they may not perceive themselves at high risk.
Dorcus Twinabaitu warned that the rising HIV infections among youths and adults could have long-term social and economic consequences for the city if not addressed promptly. She urged residents to take advantage of available HIV testing and counseling services to know their status and access treatment early.
The city health office has been conducting regular awareness campaigns in schools, communities, and workplaces to educate people about safe sexual practices. However, officials acknowledge that more needs to be done to reduce stigma, encourage testing, and ensure consistent use of prevention methods.
Twinabaitu emphasized the importance of community involvement in the fight against HIV. She said that local leaders, parents, and youth organizations all play a vital role in promoting responsible behaviors and supporting those living with HIV.
Health authorities also called for improved access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for those living with HIV, stressing that consistent treatment not only improves individual health but also reduces the risk of further transmission.
Mbarara City’s experience reflects a broader national challenge. Uganda has made significant progress in reducing new HIV infections, but gaps remain, particularly among youths and working-age adults, who continue to drive the epidemic.
Experts highlight that combining treatment with preventive measures such as male circumcision, PrEP, and consistent condom use remains critical to controlling the spread of HIV in the city and across the country.
Twinabaitu urged young people to avoid risky sexual behaviors and seek accurate information about HIV from credible sources. She encouraged parents to have open conversations with their children about sexual health to reduce vulnerability.
Community-based organizations in Mbarara have been actively engaging in peer-to-peer education, youth clubs, and HIV testing campaigns, aiming to create safe spaces for young people to learn and access services.
The city’s HIV focal office also plans to strengthen partnerships with religious institutions and workplaces to ensure messages about prevention, testing, and treatment reach all residents, including those less likely to visit health facilities.
Twinabaitu highlighted that early diagnosis remains one of the most effective ways to manage HIV. She encouraged all residents, regardless of age, to get tested regularly and know their status.
Mbarara City authorities are also tracking the epidemic through data collection and analysis, which helps identify hotspots, age groups at risk, and gaps in service delivery. This approach allows targeted interventions to reduce new infections effectively.
In addition to testing and treatment, experts stress the importance of mental health support for people living with HIV. Counseling services, support groups, and community care programs are essential to help individuals cope with stigma and lead fulfilling lives.
Health officials are urging everyone in Mbarara City to participate actively in the fight against HIV. Collective efforts from government agencies, civil society, and residents are needed to reduce new infections and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Twinabaitu concluded by stressing that preventing HIV is not just a personal responsibility but a community one. She called on all residents to support awareness campaigns, encourage testing, and maintain safe practices to protect themselves and others.
If the current trends continue without strengthened prevention and treatment efforts, Mbarara City risks seeing a further increase in HIV infections in the coming years. Authorities are therefore calling for urgent action to safeguard the health and future of the city’s population.
