By Wilson Oganan | 19/03/2026
Soroti City Council has launched a comprehensive implementation plan aimed at strengthening efforts to end HIV infections among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), one of the most vulnerable groups in the city’s HIV response.
The plan, unveiled in by the in collaboration with the and the Ministry of Sports, focuses on integrating services across multiple sectors to enhance prevention, care, and support.
The Adolescent and Young People Coordinator, , said the Integrated Service Delivery Implementation Plan is designed to streamline HIV prevention and support programs by aligning efforts in health, education, and community systems.
❝ “The approach is designed to ensure that services targeting young women and girls are coordinated rather than delivered through parallel initiatives.” ❞
— Dr. Maureen Kwikiriza
She noted that adolescent girls and young women remain disproportionately affected due to a combination of economic and social vulnerabilities, which continue to expose them to higher risks of infection.
The Assistant Resident City Commissioner of Soroti City West, , reaffirmed the city’s commitment to working with multiple stakeholders to implement targeted interventions aimed at reducing HIV infections.
❝ “The city, together with different stakeholders, will continue to implement strategies to reduce HIV infections, with emphasis on vulnerable populations such as adolescent girls and young women.” ❞
— Hassan Ocen
Amid concerns over rising HIV cases in Soroti City, which has been identified as a hotspot, the City HIV Focal Person, , emphasized that the integrated approach will significantly improve service delivery.
❝ “This approach will enable young women to access a full range of services—from HIV testing and treatment to education and social protection—through a more unified and efficient system.” ❞
— Isaac Ekelot
The initiative is expected to bridge service gaps by ensuring coordinated delivery of interventions, ultimately improving access to critical services and strengthening the overall HIV response in Soroti City.
With a renewed focus on integration and collaboration, authorities are optimistic that the plan will play a crucial role in reducing new infections and safeguarding the health and future of adolescent girls and young women.
