Tooro Kingdom, AHF hold youth dialogue to accelerate the fight against HIV/AIDS

4 December 2025, 20:32

Tooro Kingdom Premier Calvin Rwomiire and AHF officials pose for a photo with the youth after a productive meeting on breaking the chains of HIV/AIDS in the Kingdom.

By Kaboha Augustine

As part of its belated World AIDS Day activities, Tooro Kingdom partnered with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) to engage with young people on possible HIV prevention and treatment.

The Tooro Kingdom, in collaboration with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), convened a Youth Dialogue aimed at empowering young people with knowledge and practical strategies to end HIV/AIDS. The engagement formed part of the Kingdom’s belated commemoration of World AIDS Day.

The dialogue brought together youth from across the Kingdom, along with representatives from Uganda Cares, for an open conversation on HIV prevention, treatment, and the shared responsibility of ending the epidemic in Uganda by 2030.

Breaking the AIDS chain

Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Rt Hon Calvin Rwomire Armstrong Akiiki, urged young people to prioritise their health by knowing their HIV status and practising safer sexual behaviour. He called on the youth to break the chain of stigma within their communities and to become champions of HIV awareness.

He encouraged young people to take advantage of health initiatives offered through the Kingdom’s Ministry of Health, including regular HIV testing, early treatment, adherence to medication, as well as embracing abstinence and faithfulness.

The Tooro Kingdom Youth Minister, Nicholas Mugume, echoed the Prime Minister’s call, urging young people to value their lives and avoid behaviours that put them at risk of infection. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting young people to make informed decisions about their health.

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, a key partner in the initiative, continues to provide free HIV and STI testing, treatment, counselling, and advocacy services across Uganda. The organisation has also played a critical role in supporting national public health emergencies, including the Ebola response.

The Youth Dialogue concluded with a renewed commitment from both the Kingdom and its partners to intensify community engagement and accelerate efforts towards ending HIV/AIDS by 2030.