Ibanda registers progress in HIV fight

People line up for HIV testing as one of the activities to mark Word AIDS Day in Ibanda district on Friday

Ibanda district medical officer Dr Julius Bamwine, says the HIV prevalence in the district stands at 5% dropping from last year's 6%, an indicator that the district is making some positive progress in the fight against the scourge.

Bamwine was speaking on Friday speaking at Ibanda district headquarters during the celebrations of the commemoration of World AIDS Day under the theme "Reaching men, girls and young women to reduce new HIV infection".

According to the recent statics, Ibanda district total population is 266,000, which means that 13,300 people are living with HIV in the district. 

Bamwine said the reduction is due to a number of factors including the campaigns in the district supported by NGO'S in the district like USAID, HEPS for advocacy for better Health among other development partners.

He says, however, the prevalence remains in the major town centres of the district such as Igorora where it stands at 9%, Ibanda municipality at 7% and 6% in Ishongororo.

He attributed some of the high numbers the prostitution levels in the district.

"Ibanda district is predominantly engaged in agricultural produce with buying and selling of produce hence many people come with a lot of disposable income on them. This attracts young ladies who come to the district in search of jobs and commercial sex," Bamwine revealed.