Editorial: Silence fuels HIV. Let’s end stigma now

What the report says

The Observer, in an editorial, says Uganda’s HIV response has made major biomedical gains through antiretroviral therapy, scientific advances and public investment, but argues that stigma remains a serious barrier to ending HIV as a public health threat. The article is based on a study by Makerere University and the Ministry of Health, which found that 45% of respondents had faced stigma or discrimination, while more than 70% reported some form of internal stigma.

The editorial highlights a worrying shift in disclosure: the share of people who said it was hard to reveal their HIV status increased sharply between 2018 and 2026, even as self-blame reportedly declined. The Observer interprets this as a sign that many people living with HIV may feel more accepting of themselves but less confident of acceptance from the wider community.

The article argues that fear of judgement can undermine testing, treatment adherence and family disclosure, weakening Uganda’s 2030 goal of ending HIV as a public health threat. It cites Professor Rhoda Wanyenze as warning that the national response has increasingly emphasized biomedical interventions while paying less attention to structural and behavioural issues. It also notes Flavia Kyomukama’s concern that privacy protections, youth-friendly safe spaces, drop-in centres and peer-support networks need renewed attention.

The Observer’s position is that medicines and clinics are essential but insufficient without confidentiality, community support and active anti-discrimination work in schools, workplaces and religious institutions. The editorial frames dignity and social inclusion as core public health priorities, not secondary concerns.