Kalangala District; Mwena & Lutoboka, Kalangala Pentescostal Church, Bumanji Primary School

There are currently 34 million HIV-positive people worldwide, 69% of which are in Sub-Saharan Africa (United Nations). The town of Kalangala, located in the Ssesse Islands, has the highest percentage incidence of HIV infection in Uganda. It is estimated that 18% of the population are infected, compared to 7.3% nationally (United Nations AIDS Commission).

We are partnering with the Mercury Phoenix Trust to deliver a comprehensive music education, life-skills training and HIV/AIDS awareness programme for disadvantaged children, adolescents and young people in the area. Through weekly training sessions and a partnership with the District Health Office, we have been able to make a significant contribution towards an AIDS-free generation and the reduction of stigma associated with the condition. Health Clubs take place in conjunction with the music sessions, with the objective of creating HealthCare Ambassadors among the community. Brass for Africa’s latest monitoring and evaluation process has confirmed that we have increased the comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS amongst the youth to 72% from 50%, and reduced the stigma of those living with HIV/AIDS by an impressive 18%, from 34%.

By engaging beneficiaries and their communities on a weekly basis, we have been able to change mindsets, create informed supportive communities of young people in schools, landing sites and bands . We have also demonstrated to community leaders the possibilities and the potential in using music, life-skills and social interventions to reverse the cultural beliefs and effects of the disease.