Soroti City authorities are planning stronger HIV testing and prevention interventions after reported HIV prevalence in the city rose from 11.6% to 12.4%. The figure was presented by Uganda AIDS Commission officials during a stakeholder engagement meeting and has prompted calls for locally targeted action.
The Independent reported that the city’s 12.4% prevalence is substantially above the national figure cited in the report. Uganda AIDS Commission officials said the increase requires authorities to understand the specific factors driving new infections in Soroti rather than relying only on broad national interventions.
Charles Otai of the Uganda AIDS Commission said local stakeholders need to identify the unique factors affecting Soroti. The proposed response involves city leaders, health workers, cultural and religious leaders, young people and development partners.
The objective is to ensure that HIV prevention programmes address the populations and circumstances where new infections are occurring.
Soroti City East Mayor Abdul Latif said the city’s growing population and role as a commercial centre may be among the factors that require attention. He noted the high level of movement into and out of the city and the concentration of commercial and nightlife activities in some areas.
Such observations are part of the local discussion, while detailed investigations are still needed to establish the drivers of new infections.
Authorities are also looking at expanding access to testing. The AIDS Information Centre said it plans to conduct community-based HIV testing across wards in Soroti beginning in October. Bringing services closer to residents can help people who may not regularly visit health facilities to know their status and access prevention or treatment services.
Health officials and civil society organisations have encouraged residents, particularly young people, to make use of HIV prevention and testing services. Prevention options include correct and consistent condom use and, for people who meet clinical criteria, professional guidance on pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP.
The response also involves treatment and continued care for people living with HIV. AIC Uganda supports HIV services in government health facilities in the Teso region and works with the Ministry of Health and local governments on prevention, testing, treatment, laboratory services and community outreach.
The reported rise in Soroti highlights the importance of local health data. National averages can conceal differences between districts and communities. When a particular city or district has a higher burden, local authorities can use evidence to target resources, identify gaps in services and develop interventions suited to the population.
Reducing HIV transmission also requires addressing stigma. People are more likely to seek testing and treatment when they can access services confidentially and without discrimination. Open, accurate conversations about HIV can help residents understand prevention options and the importance of knowing their status.
Soroti’s authorities have therefore committed to strengthening the local response, including planning for HIV activities in future budgets. The success of these efforts will depend on sustained testing, prevention, treatment and community engagement.
The latest figures provide a reason for renewed action while officials continue to study why prevalence has risen and where interventions can have the greatest effect