By Bazio Doreen.

Dzaipi Sub-County, Adjumani District | A vehicle belonging to the Adjumani Town Council Local Council III (LC III) Chairperson, Hon. Lawrence Mangapi, was set on fire in a heated confrontation in Dzaipi Sub-County, reflecting rising post-election tensions in the district.

In a widely shared video captured at the scene, the LC III chairperson’s car is shown engulfed in flames amid chaotic scenes involving local residents. The footage, which has circulated on social media and messaging platforms, documents the dramatic escalation of political unrest following Uganda’s recent elections.

What Happened?

According to police and eyewitness accounts, Hon. Mangapi, visited the home of Dulu Angel Mark, the National Resistance Movement (NRM)candidate for the Adjumani East County Parliamentary seat, who had recently lost the election.

What was reported by some as a kind gesture aimed at offering condolence and fostering unity quickly turned confrontational when a group of supporters confronted Mangapi and members of his entourage. During the ensuing confrontation, Mangapi and his companions were reportedly injured, and his vehicle — registration number UBR 018F — was torched.

Police in the district, under the leadership of Adjumani District Commander Herbert Masembe, later intervened to restore calm and launched an investigation to ascertain those responsible. North West Nile regional police spokesperson Collins Aseaappealed for restraint among residents as the inquiry continues.

Political Context in Adjumani.

Adjumani District has seen a tense political climate in the lead-up to and aftermath of the 2026 elections. The parliamentary race in Adjumani East saw an independent candidate, James Mamawi, defeat the NRM flag bearer Dulu Angel Mark, securing 18,149 votes against Mark’s 14,682.

The district’s LC V chairperson race also generated conflict in late 2025, with clashes reported between supporters of rival candidates, Ben Anyama (independent) and John Anyanzo Ambayo (NRM), including alleged attacks and motorcycle seizures.

These incidents signal growing political friction in Adjumani, where local elections — once relatively peaceful — have lately been accompanied by sporadic violence, disputes, and public disorder. Authorities have repeatedly called on residents and political actors to restrain from violent behavior and allow democratic processes to unfold without disruption.

Voices from the Ground.

In response to the Dzaipi incident, Dulu Angel Mark described the events as a misunderstanding. He said that as Mangapi and his delegation were arriving with symbolic gifts of goodwill, tensions escalated after Mangapi’s phone received calls from other leaders, which some supporters misinterpreted.

Chairperson Mangapi, for his part, emphasized that the visit was part of post-election engagement efforts aimed at reconciliation and unityamong local leaders. He dismissed rumors about unusual gifts, reaffirming the intent to promote dialogue across political divides.

Looking Ahead.

As investigations continue, local leaders and law enforcement are urging communities in Adjumani to embrace peace and allow room for political differences without resorting to violence. With multiple elections influencing both parliamentary and local leadership positions in the district, tensions may persist unless proactive engagement and unity efforts are prioritized.

Adjumani’s experience reflects broader challenges in Uganda’s local governance landscape — where political competition can quickly spill over into public disorder without robust conflict-resolution mechanisms and community dialogue.

END.

By Bazio Doreen.

Adjumani, Uganda | 2026 General Elections

General Moses Ali’s re-election as Member of Parliament for Adjumani West Constituency in Uganda’s 2026 general elections has once again placed one of the country’s most enduring political figures at the centre of national conversation.

At 86 years old, the veteran politician and former military commander secured another parliamentary term under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) banner, extending a career that has spanned decades of Uganda’s political and military history. His victory, while celebrated by supporters in West Nile, has also reignited debate about leadership longevity, generational transition, and representation in Uganda’s democratic space.

A Campaign Watched Nationwide

Few constituency races in the 2026 elections attracted as much attention as Adjumani West. Gen. Ali’s candidacy drew national scrutiny amid public discussion about age, health, and capacity to serve. Legal and civic debates unfolded during the pre-election period, with some questioning whether elderly leaders should continue to occupy elective office.

Despite the controversy, voters in Adjumani West returned Gen. Ali to Parliament, underscoring the strong local support he continues to command. Analysts note that the outcome reflects a recurring pattern in Ugandan politics, where personal legacy, name recognition, and perceived access to state power often shape electoral choices at constituency level.

Why Voters Chose Continuity

On the campaign trail, Gen. Ali centered his message on development and service delivery. Roads, access to clean water, health facilities, and rural electrification featured prominently in his engagements with voters. For many residents, these tangible concerns outweighed broader national debates about age and political renewal.

Community leaders and supporters argue that Gen. Ali’s seniority within government has historically enabled him to advocate effectively for resources in Adjumani and the wider West Nile region. To them, continuity represents stability and leverage rather than stagnation. For many voters, experience still matters more than symbolism. Many people voted for who they believe can deliver.

A Political Career Rooted in History

General Moses Ali’s public life predates Uganda’s current political era. He has served in senior military roles and held high-level government positions, including 2^nd Deputy Prime Minister, making him one of the few figures whose influence stretches across multiple political generations.

His long-standing relationship with the ruling establishment has cemented his position as a key power broker in northern Uganda. For supporters, this history translates into trust and familiarity; for critics, it represents the entrenchment of political elites.

Mixed Reactions beyond Adjumani

Nationally, reactions to Gen. Ali’s re-election have been mixed. Civil society actors and youth leaders have pointed to his victory as evidence of the slow pace of generational transition in Ugandan politics. They argue that the continued dominance of long-serving leaders limits opportunities for younger candidates and fresh ideas.

At the same time, governance analysts caution against framing the issue purely in terms of age. They note that democratic choice ultimately rests with voters — and that any meaningful shift toward renewal must be driven by stronger grassroots organization, credible alternatives, and internal party reforms.

Implications for Civic Engagement

For civic organizations and development actors, the Adjumani West result highlights the importance of local context in electoral politics. While national narratives often focus on reform and transition, community-level priorities — service delivery, visibility, and perceived influence — frequently determine outcomes.

Gen. Ali’s re-election also raises important questions about representation, accountability, and succession planning within long-held political strongholds. As Uganda continues to grapple with questions of democratic deepening, such constituencies offer critical lessons for civic education and voter engagement efforts.

Looking Ahead

As he begins another term in Parliament, expectations remain high for Gen. Moses Ali to translate experience into measurable outcomes for his constituents. Whether his renewed mandate will strengthen development efforts in Adjumani West — or further fuel national debates on political renewal — remains to be seen.

What is clear is that the 2026 elections have once again affirmed his enduring presence in Uganda’s political landscape, and the complex realities that shape voter choice beyond headlines and hashtags.

END

By Anzoo Evaline.

The Adjumani District Electoral Commission (EC) office has received a total of 236 black ballot boxes containing election materials ahead of the forthcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections scheduled for the 15^th January 2026.

Speaking at the EC offices on Sunday 11^th January 2026, Ms. Akao Eunice, the Adjumani Electoral Commission Registrar, confirmed the delivery, noting that the consignment also included three boxes containing ink pots to be used during the polling process.

“We have received 236 black boxes. We have also received three boxes containing ink pots,” Akao said.

However, the reception of the materials was met with concern from some political leaders and candidates after irregularities were noted in a few of the ballot boxes.

Mr. Mamawi James, the Member of Parliament for Adjumani East Constituency, expressed appreciation to the EC for the timely delivery but raised concerns over two polling station boxes.

“These include Ofua Central Primary School polling station box and Pereci Ward polling station box, which appear to have complications because they seem to have been opened,” Mamawi said.

He cautioned the Electoral Commission to ensure the organization of a free and fair election to maintain public confidence in the process.

Adding to the concerns, Mr. Tandrupasi Patrick, an MP candidate for Adjumani West Constituency, said candidates engaged the EC over the issue and were allowed to observe the boxes without touching the contents.

“We battled with the EC and go-ahead was given to open but not touch anything, only to observe. According to our observation, the black cavern inside was already opened,” Tandrupasi said.

 He urged voters and polling agents to remain alert, noting that there is growing suspicion around the arrangement of the election materials.

“My advice to polling agents and voters in Adjumani is to be vigilant on polling day,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Adjumani, Mr. Emmanuel Okware, reassured the public that the election process is under proper management at the district level.

“We want to thank the Electoral Commission for ensuring this process is properly done. The materials are now in our hands as a district, and we are waiting for D-day,” Okware said.

He further called upon all participating candidates and residents of Adjumani to prepare for the elections and to cast their votes peacefully when polling opens.

The Electoral Commission and district authorities have reiterated their commitment to transparency as stakeholders await the polling day amid heightened calls for vigilance and peaceful participation.

END

By Onzima Allan.

Residents of Pakondo village, located in the Adjumani town council, are facing an acute shortage of clean and reliable water—a situation that is affecting daily life, health, and economic wellbeing in this rural community. 

A GROWING WATER CRISIS:

In recent months, water scarcity in Pakondo has become more severe, with many households struggling to access sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. The scarcity is largely due to prolonged dry spells, insufficient water infrastructure, and the depletion of traditional water sources that once sustained the village. 

Villagers describe the challenge of waking up before dawn to fetch water from distant and diminishing sources. Many report walking several kilometers to reach boreholes or seasonal streams—journeys that are both physically demanding and time-consuming, especially for women and children who bear the primary responsibility for water collection. 

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES:

The lack of clean water is not only an inconvenience—locals warn it is a public health risk. With limited access to safe water, some residents are forced to use contaminated sources that increase vulnerability to waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. This has placed additional strain on families and local health services.

Children’s education is also being impacted. Many are arriving late to class—or missing school entirely—because they must help their families secure water. The burden on school attendance has community leaders deeply concerned about long-term educational outcomes. 

CALL FOR GOVERNMENT AND NGO SUPPORT:

Community members are appealing to government officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and development partners for urgent assistance. They are requesting: installation of reliable boreholes and water wells; water purification systems and facilities; and sustainable water infrastructure planning to prevent future shortages.

Local leaders emphasize that without immediate support, the water crisis in Pakondo will continue to undermine health, livelihoods, and the socio-economic prospects of the entire village. 

LOOKING AHEAD:

Efforts by residents to adapt—such as digging shallow wells and sharing limited water resources—illustrate the resilience of the community. However, sustainable change hinges on strategic investment and collaborative action.

It is hoped that this situation will attract the attention of stakeholders who can help transform the water landscape in Pakondo, ensuring that every household has access to safe and sufficient water.

END.

By Bazio Doreen.

Adjumani District has appointed two new members to the District Service Commission.

The District Chairperson appointed Mr. Amajuru Simon Madraru as the Chairperson of the Commission while Ms. Vudra Margaret Dia was appointed as a member.

Mr. Amajuru replaces Mr. Kibrai Moses who resigned on 30^th May 2025 after serving two terms to join elective politics during the 2025 NRM primaries for the Adjumani West Member of Parliament.

While congratulating the members at the swearing in event at the District Council Hall on 5^th January 2026, Hon. Anyama Ben, the District Chairperson observed that with this move, the commission is now fully functional and there would be no further delays in recruitments, appointments and promotions.

Hon. Anyama, tasked the Mr. Amajuru to ensure that the commission gives equal distribution of jobs across the district’s 11 sub counties.

Hon. Anyama also rallied the new Chairperson to decisively use a corruption free approach to work on disciplinary issues that have been long overdue by some staff.

“This thing I have been hearing, so and so is giving money for the commission, you will be exposed this time round. I don’t want to hear anything like eating government money. I control a lot of resources but you have never heard that I have eaten any public funds,” Hon. Anyama said.

Earlier, while being sworn in by the Chief Magistrate, His Lordship, Ojok Tony Obonyo, Mr. Amajuru pledged to work closely with all stakeholders, improve credibility of the commission and ensure that people get appointments on merit and in a corruption freeway.

“I didn’t lobby for this position. I am taking over this office on merit. I don’t want any lobbying in my office. For those who have been saying that you permanent and pensionable, just like you are being recruited, you can be disappointed in public interest,” Mr. Amajuru said.

The Chief Administrative Officer was represented by Edema Richard Draciri, who pledged cooperation, support and smooth takeover of the office.

Other members of the commission include: Rev. Sr. Maia Frances, Mr. Amoko Eugene Gudu, and Hon. Anyama Saul.   Each member of the commission serves for 4 years.

END.

By; Anzoo Evaline.

Residents of Eloku Village in Fuda Parish, Pakele Sub County, Zoka Zone have petitioned the Adjumani Resident District Commissioner (RDC) over alleged brutal arrests, destruction of property, land grabbing and bias by security officers, which they say has left many members of the Madi community homeless and in pain.

Presenting their grievances at the RDC’s office on 19^th December 2025, residents accused security agencies of siding with the Acholi community in the area, a situation they say has resulted in widespread loss of property and displacement.

Droma Richard, a resident of Eloku village, said the community has suffered massive destruction.

“All our properties have been destroyed, houses burnt, pieces of land forcibly grabbed and our brothers have been innocently detained by police,” Droma said.

He added that security officers have taken sides, saying, “Security officers have sided the Acholi community whom he said is the reason for their loss.”

Baako Jane, a widower, also narrated her ordeal, saying her house and crops were destroyed.

“Our worst enemies are the law enforcement officers like the UPDF, police and the Acholi communities who are residing in Eloku village,” Baako said.

Another resident, Izama James, also questioned the neutrality of the security forces operating in the area.

“The army is not neutral. So, there is no fairness in that area. The UPDF are siding with the Acholi. They are not siding with the Ma’di. So, we have lost our properties. Our houses have got burnt. So, right now people are not there. Very few people are there, but UPDF are not helping us,” Izama said.

Responding to the petition, the Deputy RDC of Adjumani, Emmanuel Okware, acknowledged receipt of the complaint and assured residents that the matter would be addressed.

“We feel the pain and frustration you are going through, but we want you to know that we have received this petition. It’s a long petition. We need to sit together as a team and we discuss it. We shall give you feedback through your leaders. We shall address this and come back to you via your leaders. If necessary, we shall call for a meeting around that area,” Okware said.

Residents said they are hopeful that the intervention by the RDC’s office will restore peace, ensure fairness by security agencies, and allow displaced families to return to their homes.

END.

By; Anzoo Evaline.

A total of 844 election police constables have been passed out in Adjumani District to provide security during the 2026 general elections across the Madi sub-region.

The pass-out ceremony brought together recruits drawn from three districts, including: 118 from Obongi District, 254 from Moyo District, and 472 from Adjumani District. The officers successfully completed a 10-day intensive training course aimed at preparing them for election-related duties.

Speaking during the ceremony on 18^th December 2025, the District Police Commander (DPC) Adjumani, ASP Masembe Herbert, said the recruits had undergone a complete transformation during the training period.

“We received raw materials. We have turned them into a product. They are just raw materials in the form of human beings, but we’ve turned them into a product that is required on the 15th of January and other elections that will follow,” ASP Masembe said.

The Regional Training Officer for North West Nile Region, SP Kalanzi Abed, explained that the course covered both theory and practical sessions. He noted that the key topics included: patriotism, professionalism, discipline, and the protection of democratic gains.

“The course has been delivered in both theory and practical. As you have already seen in the demonstrations, patriotism, professionalism and discipline were emphasized throughout the training,” SP Kalanzi said.

The Regional Police Commander (RPC) North West Nile Region, SSP Mwesigye Joseph, reminded the newly passed-out officers of their responsibilities under the law. He cited Article 211 of the Constitution of Uganda, which establishes the Uganda Police Force and binds all officers to the police code of conduct.

“As you join the police force, you are already part of it and under the police code of conduct. When you mess up, you will not be handled like a civilian. You must be nationalist and have the country at heart,” SSP Mwesigye cautioned.

Adjumani Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Toko Swaib, urged the officers to maintain professionalism and independence while on duty. He warned them against political influence and reminded them that their recruitment was based on a standardized system.

“No politician should tell you that you were recruited because of his or her effort. You must exhibit the true character of a professional police officer, even though you have trained for only 10 days,” the RDC said.

Meanwhile, the officers were also cautioned to remain disciplined, neutral and nationalistic as they are deployed to various duty posts across the Madi sub-region to safeguard the electoral process ahead of the 2026 general elections.

END.

By Anzoo Evaline.

Adjumani District has embarked on a comprehensive review of its Environment and Natural Resources Protection Ordinance, ten years after it was first developed in 2015.

The review follows increasing environmental challenges that have emerged over the years, prompting the district leadership and partners under the URRI project to update the law to better protect natural resources and respond to climate change.

According to Giyaya Charles, the District Natural Resources Officer (DNRO), the past decade has seen new pressures on the environment that were not adequately addressed in the old ordinance.

“Our previous environment protection ordinance has now taken 10 years. Meaning there are changes that have come in that we needed to address in this ordinance and that is the reason why we are doing this review,” he said.

He noted that wetland encroachment has become a major concern, driven by population growth and limited land especially in refugee-hosting areas.
Refugees, whose designated land is no longer sufficient, have increasingly moved into wetland areas. The district has also witnessed a sharp rise in sand mining, brick making, and other destructive activities, all contributing to environmental degradation.

Giyaya added that with support from partners, the district will popularize the ordinance up to the village level, ensuring that communities are aware of the regulations and their responsibilities.

“We now have local environment committees. We’re going to activate them. They’ll be the ones to support our limited staff to implement some of the provisions, monitor what is going on and report to us and then we act,” he said.

He further encouraged lower local governments to use the ordinance as a basis for creating their own bylaws, and for communities to make local rules aligned to the district ordinance.

Simon Opio, the URRI Project Officer based in Adjumani, explained that the review is being done in close partnership with the district, the Office of the Prime Minister, cultural institutions, and other stakeholders.

 “We collaborated with the district, OPM and other stakeholders including the cultural leader to review the district environment and natural resource ordinance to ensure we conserve our environment and also protect the existing ones and we plant more tree so that we guide and respond to climate change impact,” Opio said.

The initiative is funded by Danida under the URRI project and implemented in collaboration with World Vision, the lead partner, alongside Save the Children and YSAT.

Adjumani’s Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Wambi Richard, commended the partners and district heads of department for supporting the review process. He appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that the reviewed ordinance is implemented effectively to save the environment.

Similarly, Kaijuka Richard Arthur, District Vice Chairperson, emphasized the urgency of acting on environmental degradation, stressing that climate change has already caused severe impacts on livelihoods and health. He reflected on drastic changes in the local ecosystem:

“This environment that has affected us is now taken to even us to grow. Do we see these animals that we are now seeing? Those days we have bulls. My father used to have bulls which we cannot even see that side when we are here. But the bulls have reduced here,” he said.

Kaijuka warned that environmental pollution is affecting not only livestock but human health, including children.

“We are giving birth to children who are affected by the environment. And that is why even if forcing them to school is a problem. Because the mind is affected by the chemical,” he said.

He also appreciated the presentations from the technical and partner teams, reaffirming that the council is ready to adopt the revised ordinance.

The review of the 10-year district environment ordinance marks a renewed commitment by Adjumani District to combat climate change, protect wetlands, regulate natural resource use, and empower communities to safeguard their environment.

With strengthened partnerships and activated local environment committees, the district aims to ensure that environmental conservation becomes a shared responsibility from the district leadership down to the village level.

END.

By Esther Gune.

About 85 health workers across 43 health facilities in Adjumani District have been empowered by WaterAid to integrate Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) services.

The revelation was made during a visit by a delegation including officials from Ghana, Mozambique, South Africa and Canada to Adjumani District Leadership hosted by WaterAid on Tuesday 2nd December 2025. The delegation also interacted with health workers, and patients while visiting Maaji B Health Centre II, where the organization constructed a VIP drainable pit latrine and rehabilitated other WASH facilities.

WaterAid is part of a consortium of organizations implementing the 5 year Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) project in Uganda which ends in March 2026, with support from the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada.

Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) plays a critical role in achieving Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) for women and girls, especially as it relates to personal health.

Through SHARE, WaterAid has been partnering with the district to rehabilitate WASH systems in healthcare facilities including: installing hand washing units to prevent the spread of disease; restructuring sanitation facilities to ensure that toilets are inclusive and gender sensitive; training healthcare workers in healthcare facilities and in the community on WASH infection prevention and control; installing safe waste disposal systems; and training healthcare workers on proper waste management. 

While making a presentation on the impact of the SHARE project in Adjumani, Lulu Henry Leku, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal Child Health, said that the Project has strengthened medical waste management systems, increased family planning uptake, improved private safe water access points for adolescent girls and young women, and enhanced menstrual hygiene management.

“The project has significantly increased family planning uptake from 27.1% in Financial Year 2020/2021 to 48.8% in Financial Year 2024/2025, while teenage pregnancy has dropped to 15.7% in Adjumani compared to the national average of 24%,” Lulu said.

Lulu also observed that the project has addressed long-standing gaps in adolescent sexual and reproductive health, enabling health workers through WaterAid’s training to confidently provide counselling or guidance and engage girls who previously feared seeking family planning services.

In affirmation, Ovizio Rose, an enrolled nurse at Maaji B Health Centre II, appreciated WaterAid saying that the trainings had equipped health workers with knowledge on waste management, handling adolescent girls, and improving sanitation and hygiene, which has also boosted their confidence.

 “I appreciate WaterAid for the SHARE Project. This project has really impacted us with a lot of knowledge, especially through the training.  They have taught us how to manage waste, how to handle adolescent girls, and how to improve sanitation and hygiene. All this has built our confidence,” said Ovizio Rose.

According to Amaunzi Alex, the in-charge of Maaji Health Centre II, the facility provides a range of services, including general OPD consultations with a daily attendance of about 150 patients and an average of 65 deliveries per month.

Amaunzi explained that they work closely with community health workers, mainly VHTs, who monitor hygiene and sanitation in the community, assess how households use WASH facilities, and check whether they have latrines.

“After the Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) training conducted by WaterAid, our ability to manage infections and medical waste improved giving us the confidence needed to deliver services to a population of 17,288 people, including 14,288 refugees,” Amaunzi said.

Despite these achievements, Lulu however said, several challenges still hinder health service delivery, including limited local budgets for major repairs, high pressure on services due to the refugee population, and inadequate water flow in some facilities during peak hours.

The water coverage rate in Adjumani currently stands at 75%. As of May 30th 2025, according to the Uganda Water Supply Atlas, Adjumani has 1,113 domestic water points. 46 of them have been non-functional for the last 5 years and are considered abandoned.

According to records at the District Health Office as of June 2025, out of 50,373 households, 9,829 have no latrines, only 18,590 have improved latrines, 27,010 haven’t attained Open Defecation Free Status (ODF), and 4,665 still lack access to safe drinking water.

END.

By Anzoo Evaline.

Adjumani District has today 1^st December 2025 marked the World AIDs Day 2025, with 3,300 people currently living with HIV/AIDS across both the refugee and host communities.

This is worrying as the district’s HIV prevalence rate now stands at 2.4%, slightly higher than the 2.3% average for the West Nile sub-region.

The day was celebrated under the theme: “Building a sustainable HIV response to end Aids as a public health threat.”

According to District Health Officer Adjumani, Dr. Drametu Dominic, HIV remains one of the diseases targeted for eradication by 2030 alongside teenage pregnancy and violence against women.

He noted that between July 2024 and June 2025, the district registered 110 new HIV infections, adding that the actual number may be higher due to people who have not tested or those unaware of their status.

“Nationally, the HIV prevalence of 2022 UDH stands at 5.1%. The one of West Nile is at 2.3%. The one of Adjumani is 2.4%. You can see our prevalence is higher than the average of West Nile,” Dr. Drametu stated, urging communities to take testing, treatment, and prevention seriously.

Health officials and stakeholders attributed the rising numbers to several factors including: drug abuse, gender-based violence, poverty, alcoholism, poor parental guidance, insecurity, and increased inter marriage between different tribes especially in areas like Zoka and Apaa. Leaders also noted that many young people no longer fear HIV because they rarely see people dying due to HIV-related illnesses.

Sabina Vukoni, the Vice Chairperson of persons living with HIV/AIDS in Adjumani, said that non-adherence to treatment among the youth, drug abuse, and child marriage continue to fuel new infections.

“There are many issues that are leading to the rise… most of the youths don’t want to take this medicine daily as instructed,” she said.

Emuch David, TB/HIV officer with IDI, reported that “out of the district’s 3,300 individuals in care, about 2,700 are adhering well to treatment, translating to an 84% viral suppression rate. The district aims to reach the global target of 95% suppression as part of the 2030 HIV epidemic control goals. He emphasized that most treatment challenges are among children and adolescents, highlighting the need for more tailored interventions”.

Leaders also linked HIV infections to rising teenage pregnancies and the influence of social media. FAWE Uganda Head of Program, Joseph Adiama, noted that

 “Platforms like TikTok have contributed to intimate relationships among adolescents, leading to both teenage pregnancy and increased HIV risk. I therefore want to appeal for stronger collaboration with political and community leaders in the fight against HIV and gender-based violence during the 16 Days of Activism,” Joseph said.

Mariko Otake, UNHCR Associate Protection Officer, reminded the public that HIV and gender-based violence are closely connected, noting that abuse and rape significantly contribute to HIV transmission. She also reaffirmed UNHCR’s commitment to awareness creation and prosecution of perpetrators of GBV.

Hon. Anyama Ben, the District Chairperson, expressed concern over the population influx in locations like Zoka C and Apaa, estimating that the areas host over 30,000 people, many of whom are untested.

 “These people are marrying our daughters of Madi and us also marrying them. So, that could be one of the biggest challenges,” he said, calling for strengthened security and testing efforts.

The CAO Adjumani, Ochen Andrew James, emphasized the district’s commitment to achieving the 95-95-95 strategy, praising national leadership for progress.

“I would request that the war is still on and until we achieve 100%. That is the target. That’s when we’ll be celebrating that yes, we have made it. Although we are in the journey towards it,” CAO commended.

Meanwhile, the story of Komaa Christine, a teenage mother from Maaji III Refugee settlement, highlighted the importance of continued support for adolescent girls. After facing early pregnancy and abandonment, she received counselling and encouragement from FAWE, enabling her to return to school. Christine recently sat for her PLE and now awaits results to join secondary school in 2026, saying she is grateful for the support that helped her rebuild her future.

As Adjumani joins the rest of the world in commemorating World AIDS Day during the 16 Days of Activism, district leaders and health partners called on communities to prioritize prevention, testing, and treatment, and to address the social drivers that continue fuelling new infections. They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that by 2030, HIV becomes “history” in Adjumani and Uganda at large.

The celebration was supported by the different implementing partners in the district, Adjumani district local government, FAWE Uganda the lead partner, Media for All Uganda, Reach a Hand Uganda, OPM, UNHCR, IDI, Naguru teenage center, Medical Team International, Global Aim, Right to play, and Peace Hospice.

END.