UGANDA: Cleric in Uganda Urges HIV Clients to Remain Determined in Fighting the Virus
Beneficiaries of goat project under COSBEL in group photo shortly after receiving goats
Flavia Oyuu
During the Eucharistic celebration in remembrance of those who lost their lives to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), those who are positive with the virus have been urged to continue the fight and never give up but remain optimistic for a better life.
In his message to members for the project of Community Seeking Better Living (COSBEL), Fr. Francis Omara the Judicial Vicar for Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, Uganda noted that many people attempt suicide in the realization of being affected by the virus.
“15 – 20 years ago the case was different, not like today where we have health facilities that offer professional HIV Counseling and Testing, with drugs to help us, stigma was the order of the day,” he said during the address.
Fr. Omara added that better living can be achieved through the Holy Eucharist and being part of the COSBEL project which encourages sustainability through various initiatives including goat rearing, horticulture, and saving projects.
During the event, the coordinator of COSBEL, Mr. Emmanuel Olwii said the project which started in 2015, has helped improve people’s lives by generating income for families. He however cautioned the members to use what has been given to them wisely.
Meanwhile, Ms. Dina Apio, the HIV Focal Person, at Lira Diocese thanked the project members for standing strong in the fight against the virus.
She called on the members to have a positive mindset, embrace positive living with Christ in their hearts, and be cautious not to infect others.
“We should look at our diets and adhere to taking our drugs on time, we should also not engage in sexual relationships not only because it encourages the spread of HIV and new infections but also because one can contract another HIV variant making one drug-resistant”, she added.
Currently, COSBEL has 30 groups with each group consisting of 25 – 30 members.
