By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/ Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: In an eye-opening and thought-provoking exhibition, Elpis Uganda, in partnership with Makerere University Institute of Heritage Conservation and Restoration, sounded a clarion call for increased financing to combat the intertwined challenges of HIV and mental health. The powerful plea was made during the “Expressions Art for Awareness” exhibition on March 14, 2025, which sought to illuminate the intricate relationship between HIV and mental health.
Desmond Feni, co-founder of Elpis Uganda, took center stage to emphasize the urgent need for financial support to tackle these dual challenges. With passion and conviction, Feni highlighted the devastating impact of HIV and mental health on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
The exhibition, “Expressions Art for Awareness,” was a masterful blend of art, activism, and awareness. Through a diverse range of artistic expressions, the exhibition humanized the struggles of those living with HIV and mental health conditions, dispelling stigmas and stereotypes in the process.
By harnessing the power of art, Elpis Uganda and Makerere University Institute of Heritage Conservation and Restoration created a safe space for dialogue, reflection, and action. The exhibition served as a potent reminder that the fight against HIV and mental health requires a multifaceted approach, one that incorporates financial support, community engagement, and advocacy.
As of 2024, Uganda’s HIV/AIDS prevalence stands at 5.7%, with approximately 1.4 million people living with HIV. Women are disproportionately affected, accounting for 57% of all HIV infections. The epidemic has also had a devastating impact on Uganda’s youth, with 45% of new infections occurring among young people aged 15-24.
As the world continues to grapple with the complexities of HIV and mental health, Elpis Uganda’s call to action couldn’t be more timely. By investing in initiatives that address these interconnected challenges, we can work towards creating a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.
The “Expressions Art for Awareness” exhibition was abn affirmation to the transformative power of activism and art.
‘As we move forward, let us continue to amplify the voices of those affected by HIV and mental health, and let us respond with urgency and compassion to their calls for support.’
Together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the resources, care, and support they need to thrive.
Elpis Uganda’s powerful call to action is a reminder that, together, we can make a difference and create a brighter, more hopeful future for all.