An organization supporting women living with HIV/AIDS has launched a major regional campaign aimed at reducing new HIV infections among young people, following growing concern over the vulnerability of adolescent girls and young women to the disease.

The International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa (ICWEA) says the initiative will focus on prevention, awareness, empowerment, and access to information as part of efforts to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS in Uganda.

The International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa, ICWEA, has unveiled a new HIV prevention and awareness program targeting young people, particularly adolescent girls and young women.

The initiative was launched during a stakeholders' meeting held in Mbarara City and is supported through funding worth 420,000 Euros aimed at strengthening HIV prevention interventions in selected urban areas.

Speaking at the launch, ICWEA Deputy Executive Director Dorothy Namutamba said the program will be implemented in Mbarara City, Hoima City, and Kampala.

She explained that the project seeks to equip young people with information, life skills, and protective measures to reduce their vulnerability to HIV infection.

Namutamba said the intervention comes at a time when HIV infections remain a concern among young people, particularly those aged between 14 and 25 years, including young couples.

She noted that research conducted by the organization indicates that adolescent girls and young women continue to bear a disproportionate burden of new HIV infections.

To strengthen community engagement, the organization has enlisted musicians, comedians, and other influencers to spread HIV prevention messages through entertainment and social outreach platforms.

Namutamba further revealed that findings from their research highlighted significant challenges facing young women living with HIV, prompting the organization to develop targeted support mechanisms aimed at empowering affected girls and helping them lead productive lives.

Youth leaders, including Amon Atwiine Kansara and Godfrey Baryomunsi, welcomed the initiative and applauded development partners for investing in programs that support young people and strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Representing government, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Mbarara City South, Hakimu Twinematsiko, urged members of the public to embrace voluntary HIV testing and counseling services.

He emphasized the importance of knowing one's HIV status and taking personal responsibility in preventing the spread of the virus.

Despite progress made in reducing HIV prevalence over the years, health experts continue to warn that new infections among young people remain a major challenge, underscoring the need for sustained awareness, prevention efforts, and community involvement.