HIV/AIDS is still a challenge in our communities and for this reason, Reach Out Mbuya Community Health Initiative joined the rest of the world to commemorate World AIDS Day on Thursday 1st December 2022. Led by the day’s chief-walker Mr. Paul Mugambe the Mayor of Nakawa East and the Reach Out Mbuya brass band, ROM staff, beneficiaries and other members of the community marched a five-kilometer distance to show support to People Living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, remember those who have died of AIDS related illnesses and increase awareness about HIV.
Full of energy and clad in ROM’s white and blue corporate wear, the group raised high the day’s theme, ‘Communities Taking lead in Ending HIV/AIDS’. Later, thy all gathered at Our lady Of Africa Catholic Church Mbuya for mass in memory of those who have died of HIV/AIDS. Mr. Mugambe thanked Reach Out Mbuya for standing tall in the fight against HIV. He advised people to always be alert about the HIV reality. “We need to take precautions and remind ourselves that HIV is still here. And if you have the virus today, it is no longer a death sentence. You can leave forever, as long as you adhere to your medicine.”
Ms. Josephine Kaleebi, the Executive Director of ROM appreciated the mayor and everyone else for joining in the walk as one of the ways to remind people of their responsibility in the fight against HIV.
The day was crowned with candle lighting, as a sign of love for the ‘sleeping’ comrades. HIV services such as testing and counselling and donations were also given to members of the community.
