Hoima City to host this year's International candlelight memorial

Hoima City will host this year's International candlelight memorial for Uganda, officials have said.

Dr. Dennis Byamukama , the head of HIV Prevention at Uganda AIDS unveiled  plans to commemorate the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial with reflection, resilience, and renewed commitment in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

"The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as a poignant moment to remember the lives lost to AIDS and honor those who dedicated their lives to supporting people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS," remarked Dr. Byamukama.

In a departure from tradition, Uganda will commemorate the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on Friday, May 17, 2024.

The choice of venue holds significant meaning, as Hoima's burgeoning status as an oil city mirrors both progress and challenges in the battle against HIV/AIDS.

"We have chosen Hoima City as the venue for this year's candlelight memorial due to its strategic importance," emphasized Dr. Byamukama.

"The ongoing infrastructure developments in the region underscore the need for collective action to address vulnerabilities and ensure progress in our fight against HIV/AIDS."

Under the overarching theme of "Ending AIDS by 2030: Keeping communities at the center," Uganda reaffirms its national commitment to combatting the epidemic. The theme echoes the vision laid out by President Museveni to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

"Our theme underscores the collective effort required to achieve our goal of ending AIDS by 2030.It serves as a rallying cry for all Ugandans to unite in this critical endeavor."

The event will be graced by the esteemed presence of Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, who will serve as the chief guest.

Her attendance underscores the government's unwavering commitment to the cause and its recognition of the critical role of leadership in driving progress.

"We are honored to have The Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja join us as the chief guest for this important occasion. Her presence reinforces our collective resolve to combat HIV/AIDS and build a healthier future for all Ugandans."

As Uganda prepares to commemorate the candlelight memorial, it confronts persistent challenges that hinder progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

From addressing stigma and discrimination to tackling vulnerabilities posed by large-scale infrastructure projects, the nation remains resolute in its efforts to overcome these obstacles.

"We must confront the challenges of stigma, discrimination, and vulnerability head-on," declared Dr. Byamukama. "Through collective action and unwavering determination, we can overcome these obstacles and pave the way towards a future free from the scourge of HIV/AIDS."

In a symbolic gesture of remembrance and solidarity, individuals are encouraged to light virtual candles in honor of loved ones lost to HIV/AIDS or in tribute to pioneers in the fight against the epidemic. This virtual tribute serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path forward towards a future free from the scourge of HIV/AIDS.

As Uganda prepares to commemorate the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, it issues a stirring call to unity and action. Let this occasion serve as a point of reflection, recommitment, and dialogue, as we collectively strive towards the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

"Join us in Hoima City on May 17, 2024, as we come together to honor the lives lost, celebrate the resilience of communities, and reaffirm our collective resolve to end AIDS," urged Dr. Byamukama.

"Through love, solidarity, and unwavering determination, Uganda marches forward towards a brighter, healthier future for all its citizens."