Kalangala District; Mwena & Lutoboka

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 27% of the population are infected, compared to 7.3% nationally (United Nations AIDS Commission).

In 2017 Brass for Africa partnered with the Elton John Aids Foundation and the locally-led M-Lisada Organisation to deliver a comprehensive music education, life-skills training and HIV/AIDS awareness programme for disadvantaged children, adolescents and young people in the area. Currently, we have two programs running on the island - one in Mwena port and one in Lutoboka landing site. 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. 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.