Gomba District leaders and health experts have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening local ownership and coordination in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This came during a stakeholder meeting held on November 5, 2025, at the District Headquarters in Tondola, themed “Expanded Role of Local Authorities in Implementation and Ownership of the HIV Response.”

Convened by the Gomba District Health Team in partnership with the Infectious Disease Institute (IDI), the meeting provided a platform to review progress in HIV response efforts, discuss funding mechanisms, and enhance accountability systems aimed at improving the district’s coordination framework.

Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Eswilu Donath underscored the importance of efficiency and transparency in managing donor resources. He called on all departments to make maximum use of the support provided under the IDI partnership, stressing that accountability must remain central to all interventions.

“We must ensure maximum utilization of the support provided and uphold timely accountability for all funds advanced,” he said, adding that transparent financial management was key to sustaining confidence among development partners.

Dr. Bbale Sekavuga, the Program Officer at IDI, commended Gomba’s commitment to implementing comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment programs. He praised the district’s achievements and reaffirmed IDI’s continued partnership, noting,

“We are grateful to Gomba District for partnering with IDI to implement comprehensive HIV services especially in care, treatment, and prevention. IDI remains committed to supporting the district throughout 2026 to achieve the set HIV targets.”

The collaboration has already yielded tangible progress. The number of clients actively receiving antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) has grown to 7,477, while preventive services such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.(PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), and condom distribution have expanded across all sub-counties. Health teams are also integrating HIV screening and linkage services into routine programs to ensure equitable access and continuity of care for all clients.

As the meeting drew to a close, participants agreed on a renewed commitment to strengthen HIV response systems through continuous integration of HIV services into primary healthcare, timely and accurate financial accountability, and sustained screening and treatment linkages. They also pledged to work collectively towards achieving the global 95–95–95 targets.

Gomba District’s proactive leadership and its strong collaboration with  Infectious Disease Institute (IDI) continue to demonstrate how local governments can take ownership of public health initiatives driving progress towards an AIDS-free generation through accountability, inclusivity, and shared responsibility.

Dr. Bbale Sekavuga, the Program Officer at IDI emphasizing the comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment programs in the district at the district headquarters

Mr. Eswilu Donath Chief Administrative Officer while making remarks to the team emphasizing maximum use of the support provided under the IDI partnership, stressing that accountability to the district officials.

Dr. Bbale Sekavuga, the Program Officer at IDI emphasizing the comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment programs in the district at the district headquarters