The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, has called for intensified efforts across the tourism sector to combat HIV/AIDS, urging all stakeholders to work toward achieving the national goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
Speaking at the Ministry’s International Candlelight Memorial Day event held at the National Records and Archives Centre, Butime, who was represented by the Ministry’s Under Secretary, Geoffrey Seremba, paid tribute to lives lost to AIDS and emphasised the importance of community-driven leadership and sustainable HIV responses.
“This day reminds us to remember those we have lost and recommit ourselves to the fight. The progress made should energise us, not make us complacent,” Butime said before leading attendees in a candle-lighting ceremony to honour the deceased.
He praised Uganda’s progress in reducing HIV prevalence, noting that the national rate has declined from 18% in the 1990s to 5.1% today.
He attributed this achievement to strong political will from President Yoweri Museveni and robust partnerships with key stakeholders.
Butime also outlined steps being taken within the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities to mainstream HIV/AIDS programs. These include the ongoing development of a Sector HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy, annual Candlelight Day commemorations, and allocating 0.1% of the ministry’s budget to HIV/AIDS awareness and support initiatives.
He further recognised the Uganda AIDS Commission for its continued technical support and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting an inclusive, stigma-free, and health-conscious workplace.
The event concluded with the symbolic lighting of candles, uniting participants in a moment of reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment to ending HIV/AIDS in Uganda.