In recognition of Women’s History Month and in advance of World Health Day, Chargé D’Affaires Colette Marcellin visited the Kasenge Primary School in Mukono district and participated in discussions with students on the importance of making smart and healthy life decisions. Students presented songs and skits on how they are making smart choices to remain healthy and AIDS-free.
Kasenge Primary School is one of 164 schools across 10 districts in Uganda that participates in the The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)’s DREAMS program. DREAMS aims to reduce new HIV infections by creating knowledgeable, educated, and empowered young women. Currently, a third of all new HIV cases in Uganda occur among female adolescents, with two girls becoming infected every single hour.
In her remarks, the Chargé D’Affaires Colette told students, parents, teachers and local leaders that when it comes to empowering girls and women, everyone must take part. “Whether you are a girl or a boy, parent or a teacher, a sibling or a friend – we urge you to invest in Uganda’s next generation by keeping girls like you all healthy, safe, and AIDS-free.”
Through programs like DREAMS, the U.S. Government is committed to building a healthier Uganda and empowering Uganda’s girls so they can have the bright futures they deserve.
