New Study: Stigma still keeps many Ugandans away from HIV care

What the report says

The Observer reports that a new study by Makerere University and Uganda’s Ministry of Health has found that stigma and discrimination remain major barriers to HIV prevention and treatment, complicating Uganda’s goal of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030. The study says fear of judgment or rejection is discouraging some people from testing, disclosing their status, attending clinic appointments and consistently taking antiretroviral medicine.

According to the report, researchers gathered evidence from 20 districts, including responses from 5,387 people living with HIV aged 14 and above, 524 healthcare providers, interviews, focus group discussions and personal accounts. The study found that 45% of respondents had experienced stigma or discrimination. Verbal harassment was the most reported form, followed by sexual rejection, blackmail and psychological pressure. Researchers also found high levels of self-stigma, with 70.4% reporting at least one form in the previous 12 months.

The findings show some progress since 2018, including declines in self-blame, blaming others and low self-esteem among respondents. However, The Observer reports that difficulty disclosing HIV-positive status rose from 36% in 2018 to 59% in 2026, while feelings of shame also increased.

HIV advocate Flavia Kyomukama, chair of the National Forum of People Living with HIV, said the findings reflect concerns raised by affected communities, including loss of safe spaces and drop-in centres for young people. Professor Rhoda Wanyenze of Makerere University School of Public Health said Uganda’s response needs renewed attention to social, behavioural and structural factors, not only biomedical interventions.