Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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New Vision (Kampala) - October 20, 2009
Hope Mafaranga
They said communication gaps between married couples, had led to temptations and the spread of the disease. They revealed this during a one-day workshop organised by district Woman MP Joyce Kwebiha and sponsored by the Rwenzori Association of non-governmental organisations and networks.
The workshop, held on Monday in Bambo Restaurant in Kyenjojo town, drew about 300 women from the district. Kate Kabatoro from Kyarusozi village, said effective communication about the disease between family members is the best tool to fight the epidemic.
"We have to talk to our husbands and show them the dangers and impacts of HIV/AIDS. We have to be open and encourage each other to be faithful," she said.
Harriet Mugisa, from Hapuyo sub-county, said most men have other partners outside their marriage. She blamed this for the increase in the spread of the disease.
She said women should do everything within their power to protect themselves and their husbands from contracting HIV.
"I brought condoms and placed them where my husband could easily see them so that in case he wanted to go out with another woman, he would use them and protect both of us from getting the virus," she said.
Violet Kunihira of Katoke sub-county lashed out at people who get to know their status but keep it a secret to their spouses. Kwebiha said parents were not giving their children sex education, adding that others only caution their daughters about getting pregnant, ignoring issues related to HIV/AIDS.
Veronica Kahigo of Nyantugo sub-county said HIV had also contributed to domestic violence. "When HIV enters the family, it divides it, each one accusing the other of bringing the disease," she said.
Doreen Nasanga explained that women are voiceless and poor, which leaves them vulnerable to HIV infection.
She urged fellow women to work hard to raise their standards of living.
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