THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM, WILDLIFE AND ANTIQUITIES COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL.

The Ministry has joined the global community to commemorate the International Candlelight Day under the theme "ENDING AIDS BY 2030: BUILDING SUSTAINABLE HIV RESPONSE." This day is significant for remembering those who succumbed to AIDS and standing in solidarity with those affected by HIV in various ways. The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Geofrey Sseremba, represented the Hon Minister and read a speech that observed a moment of silence in honor of the souls of people who have succumbed to AIDS. 

The commemoration is a call to action to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030, as outlined in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The theme emphasizes the need for building sustainable HIV responses. According to UNAIDS, achieving this goal requires a sustained effort from governments, civil societies, and individuals to ensure that everyone has access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care services

The Hon Minister analyzed that despite the HIV burden and challenges Uganda faced over the years, the country has registered immense success in prevention and control of the HIV and AIDS epidemic. Key factors to this success include visionary leadership and political commitment from His Excellency, The President as well as dedicated support and contribution from different stakeholders, especially Uganda AIDS Commission, Line Ministries, Self Coordinating Entities, Civil Society Organizations, Religious leaders, and People living with HIV among others 

The President of Uganda has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV and AIDS and has been hailed internationally for initiating and leading an effective HIV response in the country. This has seen death and despair turn into life and hope among affected populations. According to UNAIDS, Uganda has made significant progress in reducing new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths.

The success in Uganda's HIV response can be attributed to the strong leadership and commitment from the government, as well as the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. The Uganda AIDS Commission, for instance, has played a crucial role in coordinating the national response to HIV/AIDS. Additionally, civil society organizations have been instrumental in providing support services to people living with HIV

The Permanent Secretary noted that the Ministry is in the process of developing an HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy, which aims to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS within the workplace and the communities where staff members live and operate. This policy is in line with global efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, as seen in various international guidelines and recommendations. 

“The Ministry has allocated 0.1% of its budget towards HIV/AIDS activities, which will be mainstreamed into its programs and projects during the planning and budgeting process. Furthermore, the Ministry plans to commemorate the International Candlelight Memorial every year to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS scourge, joining other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in this effort. The Ministry's commitment to developing an HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy and allocating budget towards HIV/AIDS activities demonstrates its dedication to addressing this significant health issue.  

The minister's call to action emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including political leaders, civil societies, government ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as development partners and local communities, to effectively implement government programs and combat HIV/AIDS.