By Hunter FM radio Reporter.

KABALE - UGANDA: Kabale District health authorities are sounding the alarm over a surge in new HIV infections among young women, despite progress in treatment and viral suppression. Between January and March 2026, the district recorded 173 new cases, with 75 infections among women aged 20-39.

With 19,021 people living with HIV, Kabale has achieved a 98% viral suppression rate among 8,749 patients on treatment. However, District Health Officer Gilbert Arinaitwe Mateeka warns that rising infections highlight gaps in prevention, citing poverty, transactional sex, and stigma as contributing factors.

Officials are calling for increased economic empowerment programs for vulnerable women and better sexual health education, suggesting music and school competitions to raise awareness.