Kampala Key, Vulnerable and Priority Populations (KVP) News

Decriminalise same-sex/same-gender relationships in Uganda. We at the Most At Risk Populations' Society in Uganda (MARPS In Uganda), realised a long time back that we needed to keep a lid on our work of caring, treatment and support to many LGBTQ+ living with HIV, Hepatitis, TB, Long COVID-19, Sickle cell anaemia and other illnesses. Keeping quiet has not helped us in the long run. What with the Anti-gay bill in the offing! We believed and lived by the "do no harm," mantra. We have put in immense time, money and sacrifice to keep a culture of adherence and U=U (undetectable = untransmittable) for our beneficiaries. We care for 717 persons living with HIV in Uganda. 193 are LGBTQ+ living with HIV with 17 living with TB/HIV. Of the 717 living with HIV, 312 have suppressed viral load for 10 years now. 200 have suppressed viral load for 8 years now. Of the 193 LGBTQ+ Living with HIV, 52 have suppressed viral load for 10 years and 34 have suppressed viral load for 8 year...

From July 6-10, the International AIDS Society (IAS) is hosting the 23rd International AIDS Conference, which is the world's largest conference on HIV and AIDS.  It was originally to be held in San Francisco and Oakland - the first time in two cities - it is now, in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, to be an online convening:  AIDS 2020: Virtual.  This format will enable participants to access the latest HIV science, advocacy, and knowledge through a combination of virtual sessions, community networking, and a 24-hour plenary speaker schedule, reaching audiences around the globe.  To conclude  AIDS 2020: Virtual,  IAS will host a session on breaking COVID-19 research, policy analysis, and frontline experience.

There is a health alternative and answer to the LGBTIQQ question and self-determination in Uganda. There have to be Strategic Plans supporting dignity, respect, justice, enjoyment of quality life, livelihood, agency, autonomy and self-determination of LGBTIQQ persons in Uganda. Let us  support that approach as well. Is it possible for LGBTIQQ in Uganda to be supported to pursue self-esteem and quality life self-preservation goals? It is their right to dress the way they feel dignifies them. Right? But........but, you are a leader who believes in this narrative. Right? Let us think back. Critical analysis here! You have led LGBTIQQ since the start of activism and indeed your work is commendable. You have won awards, recognition and and accolades. Right? Let us use the same dignity you enjoy to think with a dignity-affirmation lens. "Human rights" are humanised rights when you are arguing a case for universal care, love by parents, denounce persecution, stabilised housing, li...