The challenges of HIV/AIDS epidemic: a case study of Namirembe Diocese, church of Uganda, 1992 – 2012.

Abstract

An investigation of the Challenges of HIV and AIDS was conducted in Namirembe Diocese - church of Uganda. The Diocese of Namir'en1be is the oldest Diocese in the Anglican Church of the Province of Uganda. lt covers the districts of Wakiso, Kalangala (Ssese Islands) and most parts of Kampala, with 6 Archdeaconries & one Deanery, 57 Parishes, and 342 local congregations (churches). Namirembe Diocese shares boundaries with Luweero Diocese in the North, Mukono Diocese in the East and South East, in the South; it is bordered by West Buganda and Central Buganda Dioceses, in the West it is bordered by Mityana Diocese. The major Variables in the study included; Diocesan responses in terms of caring for People Living with AIDS, Support offered to HIV and AJDS Carriers in the Diocese, Church activities that PLWA are engaged in and the Diocesan involvement in HJV and AlDS activities. In order to investigate a descriptive research design was used. Methods of data Collection included; Discussions, Questionnaires and interviews as primary sources of data Collection. Documentary method and Observation methods were the ones used as secondary sources. Results indicated that HIV and AIDS awareness and Prevention strategies are very much promoted by Namirembe Diocese through various activities, 42% are health Centers that offer services on behalf of the Diocese, 18% are activities promoting Abstinence, Behavioral Change, being faithful to one trusted partner. 12% are activities promoted through Music, Dance and Drama, 4% use Sports as a medium, and 24% through training and educative seminars. Activities done in relation to HIV and AIDS programs were noted at 42% as prevention (Behavioral Change Communication, Peer education, promotion of ABC). 17 .8% as Awareness through various activities like, Information Education and Communication tools distribution; Drama, Music, Sports and Dance. Voluntary Counseling and testing was at 14.1 % this involves Voluntary Testing, and Counseling of people.