The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has urged residents of Buddu County to step up efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS, warning that the disease continues to threaten the Kingdom’s broader development ambitions.
Mayiga delivered the message during a stop in Kyebe–Kanabulemu sub-county, Kyotera District, as part of his ongoing mobilization tours aimed at monitoring community programs and promoting socio-economic transformation. He stressed that the realization of Buganda’s “kuntiko” vision hinges on a healthy population capable of sustaining productivity and growth.
At Kasensero landing site, a fishing community long associated with high HIV prevalence rates, the Katikkiro spoke candidly about the dangers of risky behavior. He cautioned residents against complacency, noting that repeated public health campaigns have not been matched with consistent behavioral change.
“I will continue to speak about HIV/AIDS until we defeat it,” he said, emphasizing the need for routine testing, strict adherence to treatment, and responsible practices such as safe sex. He added that ignoring guidance from the Kabaka, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has cost many lives.
Kyotera District remains among the hardest-hit areas in the country, with infection rates estimated at 12.6 percent. Fishing hubs such as Kasensero and cross-border points like Mutukula are particularly vulnerable due to high mobility and economic pressures that often fuel unsafe practices.
Beyond health concerns, local fishermen used the visit to highlight growing insecurity on Lake Victoria. They reported a sharp decline in their numbers, saying the fleet has reduced from about 700 boats to roughly 300 due to persistent attacks by suspected pirates.
According to the fishermen, the attackers, some believed to operate from across the border in Tanzania, target engines and fishing gear, sometimes striking in broad daylight. They also raised concerns about strict fishing regulations, which they say are worsening their already fragile livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, the community acknowledged the Buganda Kingdom’s sustained outreach initiatives, particularly in health education and HIV awareness, crediting them with improving survival and encouraging more people to seek treatment.
Mayiga’s tour attracted a cross-section of leaders, including Bishop Emeritus Henry Katumba Tamale and several Kingdom ministers, among them Israel Kazibwe Kitooke and Noah Kiyimba. Government representatives, including State Minister Haruna Kasolo and Kyotera District Woman MP Fortunate Rose Nantongo, also attended, underscoring the urgency of the issues raised.
