The Ministry of Health in Uganda has launched the third round of the Uganda Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA) for 2024-25. The survey aims to provide essential data on the progress and impact of current HIV response efforts and guide future strategies.
The United States government, a long-term partner with Uganda in health initiatives, continues its support through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Since 2003, PEPFAR has invested nearly six billion dollars in Uganda's HIV prevention, care, and treatment services. This year alone, approximately $500 million is allocated to health programs in Uganda.
Despite undergoing a review of Federal Assistance programs, the U.S. remains committed to supporting significant humanitarian projects in Uganda. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with $10 million funding from PEPFAR, is backing UPHIA 2025 alongside local partners such as Makerere University School of Public Health.
"Of the estimated 1.5 million Ugandans living with HIV, over 1.4 million—about 94%—are receiving life-saving treatment supported by PEPFAR," according to officials present at the launch event.
The new survey seeks to visit 6,000 randomly selected households across Uganda involving at least 15,000 participants aged 15 and older. It will also explore non-communicable diseases' burden—a growing concern in public health within Uganda.
"Population-Based HIV Impact Assessments (PHIAs), such as the one we are launching today, are essential for evaluating the effectiveness of HIV treatment and prevention programs," noted representatives during the launch.
This UPHIA round is unique because it is fully implemented by local partners and aims to collect comprehensive data on various health indicators including antiretroviral drug resistance.
"As teams head into the field for data collection, your commitment to protocol is essential," emphasized stakeholders involved in conducting this survey.
In conclusion, this initiative underscores ongoing efforts towards achieving UNAIDS fast-track targets set for ending the HIV epidemic by 2030 while addressing other emerging health challenges within Uganda's population.
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