HIV Prevalence Raises Concern in Ntungamo as Officials Call for More Testing

What the report says

Health officials in Ntungamo District, western Uganda, are urging stronger HIV prevention, testing and treatment efforts after district figures cited by health authorities put prevalence at 6.7 percent. According to Nile Post, the warning was raised during an event at Rushoka Health Centre IV in Rwentoborwahi, where a new X-ray machine was being handed over to support diagnosis of other illnesses, including suspected tuberculosis.

The Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr Diana Atwine, said residents should return to basic HIV prevention messages such as abstinence, faithfulness and correct condom use, while also testing regularly and seeking treatment when needed. Ntungamo District Health Officer Dr Amon Bahati echoed the call, saying people should know their status early so they can access care sooner. Officials also linked the district’s HIV burden to related health risks, especially TB and cervical cancer, which can become more serious when HIV is not detected or treated early.

The new X-ray machine was donated by the Rotary Club of Kololo Kampala in partnership with the Rotary Club of Ntungamo. Nile Post reported that the equipment is intended to improve diagnostic services at Rushoka, reduce the need for patients to travel elsewhere, and help health workers respond more efficiently to TB cases and other conditions. The health centre, established in 2001, serves a large population and has faced pressure on its medical infrastructure, underscoring why officials say prevention and basic service expansion remain important.