HIV/AIDS: Youth to benefit from sh8b project

By Agnes Kyotalengerire and Diana Nassali

 A project designed to reduce unintended pregnancies, reduce HIV transmission and HIV related maternal deaths among youth affected by HIV have been launched.

The LINK UP project estimated to cost US$3.5million (sh8.75billion) will benefit a total number of  305,000 youth living with HIV aged between 10  and 24 years in under most at risk populations in 11 districts of the country.

Implementation starts on Monday in districts that include: Kampala, Wakiso, Kayunga, Nakasongola, Mayuge, Namutumba, Bigiri, Iganga, Kamuli, Luwero and Mukono.

The three year project funded by the Netherlands Government is implemented by Community Health Alliance Uganda (CHAU) in partnership with the ministry of health.

Through peer led outreach programs and Marie Stopes Health Care Service network called Blue Stars, the project will provide young people with HIV counseling and screening services, information and contraceptives like condoms.

Speaking at the launch, minister of state for health, Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye said the project will address issues of young people living with HIV/AIDS consequently the health sector since government provides only1.2 trillion shillings to the health sector annually.  

 “One in three people are young people living with HIV and that is how serious the problem is,” Dr Tumwesigye warned.

The project is also implemented in other four  countries; Burma, Bangladesh, Ethiopia and Burundi through a partnership consortium comprising of the international HIV/AIDS Alliance (IHAA), Marie Stopes International (MSI), Population  Council , Stop AIDS NOW, Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS and the Athena Network.

Executive director CHAU, Edith Mukisa said the youth target groups were selected because they form majority of the population- 75% and their needs are high.

“Young people are a valuable resource. We must protect, guide and work with them to make sure they are healthy so as to contribute to the economy of the country,” Mukisa said.