President Museveni Calls for Continental Unity to Eradicate HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis by 2030

The President stressed that eliminating these diseases requires continental cooperation, increased funding, and innovative strategies. 

Kampala, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged African leaders to strengthen collaboration in eliminating HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis as public health threats by 2030. The call was made during the opening of a high-level continental meeting at Speke Resort Munyonyo, attended by health experts, scientists, and policymakers from across Africa.  

President Museveni highlighted Uganda's significant strides in combating HIV, noting the country's success in expanding antiretroviral therapy coverage and reducing mother-to-child transmission. However, he emphasised that diseases like hepatitis continue to devastate communities, particularly in Africa.  

Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng revealed alarming statistics:  
 8 million people globally live with, with 230,000 deaths annually.  
 65 million are affected by hepatitis, predominantly in Africa.  
 In Uganda, 1.5 million people live with HIV, representing 6.1% of the population aged 15–49, while hepatitis affects 4.1%.  

The President stressed that eliminating these diseases requires continental cooperation, increased funding, and innovative strategies. He called for:  
 Stronger health systems to ensure widespread testing and treatment.  
 Community engagement to combat stigma and improve healthseeking behaviour.  
 Research partnerships to develop more effective vaccines and therapies.  

Experts at the summit discussed actionable plans, including:  
 Scaling up prevention programs, such as voluntary male circumcision and hepatitis B vaccination.  
 Enhancing diagnostic tools for early detection of hepatitis.  
 Mobilising domestic and international funding to sustain health interventions.  

Dr. Aceng reiterated Uganda’s commitment to the global health targets but warned that without collective effort, the 2030 goal may remain out of reach.  

The summit continues with technical sessions aimed at drafting a continental strategy to accelerate progress.