In a significant move to advance Uganda’s fight against HIV/AIDS, the Judiciary hosted a Health Awareness Camp at the Arua High Court Grounds under the theme “Ending AIDS by 2030: Building Sustainable HIV Response.” The event brought together judicial officers, court staff, health professionals, political and religious leaders, and security personnel, demonstrating a united front in addressing the epidemic.
The Resident City Commissioner of Arua City commended the Judiciary for incorporating HIV/AIDS response strategies into its institutional operations. He highlighted the Judiciary’s progressive approach in supporting openness among staff living with HIV, encouraging other government agencies to adopt similar practices.
He emphasized the importance of revitalizing the 90-90-90 strategy, a global target that aims for 90% of people living with HIV to know their status, 90% of those diagnosed to receive sustained treatment, and 90% of those treated to achieve viral suppression. He also called on communities to take HIV prevention as seriously as other public health issues, especially among high-risk groups such as those in the security sector.
Representing the Arua Resident Judge, the Acting Assistant Registrar encouraged participants to become advocates of HIV prevention within their homes and communities. He reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to national health goals by ensuring accurate information is available and prevention tools are accessible.
A notable highlight of the event was the announcement that condoms would be made available not only to Judiciary staff but also to the general public at court premises. The initiative aims to normalize their use and reduce stigma. Condom uptake and distribution will be tracked and included in court administrative reports, with stock depletion viewed as an indicator of responsible behavior and increased awareness.
The Registrar also warned against reliance on a single HIV test and advocated for confirmatory testing before resuming sexual activity, stressing that abstinence remains the safest approach until one’s status is certain.
The Judiciary HIV/AIDS Committee emphasized that the Health Camp is part of a wider strategy that includes regional sensitization efforts, public outreach via radio, and distribution of accessible information materials. The goal is to ensure that staff, court users, and communities alike benefit from a justice system that champions public health.
The Judiciary’s focal person for HIV reiterated the need for a coordinated and inclusive response to HIV/AIDS. She reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to sustained awareness and sensitization programs.
In addition to addressing HIV/AIDS, the Health Camp promoted general wellness, offering education on non-communicable diseases, lifestyle changes, and routine health screenings. This holistic approach reflects the Judiciary’s broader commitment to the health and well-being of both its workforce and the communities it serves.
With dedicated partnerships and continued outreach, the Judiciary has positioned itself not only as a guardian of justice but also as an active force in Uganda’s public health mission.
