Mubende– The Judiciary has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the health and wellbeing of its staff, court users and surrounding communities through the Quarterly Health Awareness Camp held at Mubende High Court under the theme: “Ending AIDS by 2030: Embracing the Role of Women.”
The Camp brought together judicial officers and staff from the Mubende High Court Circuit, health specialists, justice sector stakeholders, members of the public and representatives of the Judiciary HIV/AIDS Committee. Activities included health sensitization, free medical screening, testimony sharing, demonstrations and dissemination of information on HIV/AIDS prevention and workplace wellness.
Presiding over the event on behalf of the Resident Judge, HW Rogers Binega Kinobe, Deputy Registrar of Mubende High Court, noted that the initiative was particularly important because many court users face health-related challenges and may not always have access to reliable health information and screening services.
“This sensitization and free screening programme is a valuable opportunity for both staff and court users. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the services being offered today because they are intended to improve our wellbeing,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairperson of the Judiciary HIV/AIDS Committee, Deputy Registrar HW Dorothy Lwanga Ssempala highlighted the Judiciary’s continued efforts to integrate HIV/AIDS interventions into its programmes through health camps, media engagements, workplace sensitization and support initiatives for staff living with HIV.
She noted that Uganda’s response to HIV/AIDS is guided by the Presidential Fast-Track Initiative aimed at ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and emphasized that the Judiciary remains committed to supporting that national goal.
“The objective of today’s camp is to reduce stigma, prevent new infections and promote a supportive environment for people living with HIV,” she said.
Ms. Hope Murungi from the Uganda AIDS Commission provided an update on the national HIV/AIDS situation, noting that women and girls continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the epidemic. She cited statistics indicating that women account for the majority of people living with HIV and called upon both men and women to actively participate in prevention efforts.
“HIV is still with us and remains a threat. Each one of us has a responsibility to do whatever we can to prevent new infections and support those living with the virus,” she said.
Dr. Stephen Watiti, a renowned HIV/AIDS activist and Commissioner at the Uganda AIDS Commission, commended the Judiciary for financially supporting the initiative and encouraged participants to embrace testing and treatment services.
“When you test positive, it does not mean you are going to die. With proper treatment and adherence to medication, people living with HIV can live long, healthy and productive lives,” he said.
He also urged participants to reject stigma and discrimination and support those affected by HIV/AIDS.
While HIV/AIDS was the primary focus of the event, health experts also highlighted other emerging public health concerns. Dr. Elizabeth Kasirye Omagino reminded participants that infectious diseases such as Ebola remain a threat and emphasized the importance of hygiene practices through the “5 Fs” approach, Faeces, Fingers, Food, Fluids and Flies, as a key strategy for preventing disease transmission.
She further encouraged men and women to work together in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing disease.
The camp also featured a presentation by Dr. John Omagino, Executive Director of the Uganda Heart Institute, who called for greater attention to non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and heart disease.
He encouraged participants to adopt healthy lifestyles through regular exercise, adequate hydration and balanced nutrition.
“As we celebrate progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, we must also address the growing challenge of non-communicable diseases, which continue to affect many people silently,” he said.
A candlelight memorial ceremony led by the Uganda AIDS Commission was held to honour those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to reaffirm commitment to supporting people living with the virus while combating stigma and discrimination.
Participants were also taken through the Judiciary HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy by Mr. Innocent Ahabwe, Economist in the Judiciary, on behalf of the Commissioner Human Resource. Copies of the policy and other educational materials were officially handed over by members of the Judiciary HIV/AIDS Committee, while Ms. Susan Harriet Akello, Principal Human Resource Officer and Judiciary HIV Focal Person, sensitized participants on their use.
The event also featured testimony sharing by a person living with HIV, practical demonstrations and interactive discussions aimed at deepening awareness and promoting positive health-seeking behaviour.
The programme was moderated by Ms. Sheila Wamboga, Principal Communications Officer in the Judiciary.
