BY OKIDI PATRICK
Lira City, Uganda | June 11, 2026.
Business leaders of small and medium enterprises in the Lango sub-region have been called upon to mainstream HIV prevention in their operations as part of efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The call was made during a half-day HIV/ AIDS coordination and mainstreaming meeting for small and medium enterprises, organised by the Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC), Office of the President, in Adyel Children’s Park, Lira City on Thurday 11th, June, 2026.
Dr. Morris Chris Ongom, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who was chief moderator, said the business community must be mindful of the risks.
“We exist to promote businesses as Chambers of Commerce. In this journey of life, you need to be mindful,” Dr. Ongom said. He thanked the Uganda AIDS Commission for engaging the small and medium enterprises, noting that Lira City has an HIV prevalence of 9% — far above the national average of 4.9%.
“As media and business people, the work we do exposes us to many risks. In this city, not everyone you meet is safe. Walk away from free things,” he warned.
Dr. Maureen Kwikiriza, Coordinator for Adolescents and Young People at the HIV Prevention Unit, UAC, said HIV is an “all-round problem for all sectors” and called for HIV mainstreaming.
“By 2030, we should end HIV as a public threat. Use the vaginal ring or PrEP injection, abstain, be faithful, use condoms, test and know your HIV status,” Dr. Kwikiriza said.
Dr. Hillary Okello, the HIV Focal Point Person for Lira City, emphasised behavioural change and urged the business community to counsel employees.
“HIV can go unnoticed for many years. We must end stigma and discrimination. It needs a multi-sectoral response,” Dr. Okello said.
He noted that 1.3 million Ugandans are currently on HIV treatment, according to Ministry of Health annual estimates. The country has registered a 64% reduction in new infections.
“Lira City’s prevalence rate is at 9%, nearly double national rate — UAC”
Dr. Hillary Okello applauded the media for consistent reporting that has helped reduce new infections.
“Poverty is a leading driver of HIV/AIDS. Wife inheritance, poor parenting, and multiple casual relationships increase HIV risk. Take care of your life and the life of others,” he added.
The meeting sought to rally leadership of SMEs in Lango towards ending AIDS by 2030.
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