By Alfred Opio
Leaders in Pallisa District are raising concern over increasing HIV infections among young people, with growing attention placed on the role of digital platforms in shaping risky behavior.
The LC3 Chairperson of Apopong Sub-county, Emma Olupot, popularly known as “Hard Body,” has linked the rise in infections to the influence of social media on youth lifestyles and decision-making.
Speaking during an engagement meeting on the state of HIV and AIDS in Uganda, held under the theme of ending AIDS by 2030, Olupot warned that unchecked access to online content is exposing young people to harmful behaviors.
❝ “Our youth are now spending most of their time on social media, where they are exposed to inappropriate content. Some even go ahead to share explicit images, which promotes immorality and leads to early sexual activity.” ❞
— Emma Olupot
He noted that the widespread availability of smartphones and affordable internet has made it easier for young people to access digital platforms without proper guidance, increasing their vulnerability.
Olupot emphasized that such exposure, combined with limited sexual education and inadequate preventive measures, significantly raises the risk of HIV transmission among adolescents.
He also pointed to peer pressure amplified through online interactions, where many youths feel compelled to imitate behaviors they see in order to gain acceptance.
❝ “Many young people are influenced by what they see online and end up making decisions without considering the risks involved.” ❞
— Emma Olupot
The local leader called on parents and guardians to take a more active role in supervising their children’s online activities and fostering open communication at home.
❝ “We cannot leave our children to learn everything from the internet. Parents must guide them on what is right and wrong.” ❞
— Emma Olupot
He further urged schools and community leaders to strengthen HIV awareness campaigns and incorporate digital literacy into youth programs, particularly in rural areas where access to accurate information remains limited.
Health workers in Pallisa have echoed these concerns, reporting a noticeable increase in HIV infections among adolescents and young adults. They attribute the trend to factors such as early sexual debut, multiple partners, and inconsistent use of protection—issues now being intensified by social media influence.
However, some community members argue that the problem goes beyond digital platforms, citing poverty, unemployment, and limited access to youth-friendly health services as additional drivers of risky behavior.
Despite differing views, stakeholders agree on the need for a collective response. Calls have been made for stronger collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders to scale up HIV prevention efforts.
Proposed interventions include expanding access to testing and counseling services, promoting safe practices, and equipping young people with life skills to make informed decisions.
As Uganda continues its push toward ending HIV/AIDS by 2030, leaders stress the importance of balancing the benefits of technology with safeguards that protect young people from its potential harms.
