Young Refugees in Uganda: The Fight Against HIV

In Kampala, Uganda, young refugees encounter significant hurdles in safeguarding themselves against HIV.

Key Findings from a Recent Study

• Participants: 330 young refugees aged 16 to 24
• Condom Use: Only one in five used condoms regularly
• HIV Testing: Over half had access to HIV self-testing kits
• Testing History: Half had been tested for HIV in the past year

Factors Influencing HIV Protection

Education and Financial Stability

• Higher education and financial stability boosted confidence in condom use.
• Those struggling with food security felt less confident.

Relationships and Confidence

• Being in a casual relationship and feeling confident about condom use increased regular usage.

Access to HIV Self-Testing Kits

• Linked to higher education but also to stigma around sexual health and HIV.
• Societal attitudes can hinder progress despite education.

Testing for HIV

• More money and being a young parent increased the likelihood of recent HIV testing.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the need for comprehensive solutions addressing education, financial stability, and societal attitudes to better protect young refugees from HIV.