The Uganda Prisons Service (UPS) has refuted claims suggesting a widespread HIV/AIDS outbreak within their correctional facilities. These claims were made in recent media reports, which alleged that numerous inmates were contracting HIV while in prison.
The spokesperson for UPS, Senior Commissioner of Prisons (SCP) Frank Baine, clarified that most of the prisoners found to be HIV positive were already infected prior to their incarceration, unaware of their status at the time.
Baine added that a significant number of inmates in prisons are serving sentences or facing trial for cases related to rape and defilement. "When someone engages in acts of rape or defilement, they often neglect to use protection such as condoms. Many only become aware of their exposure to HIV infection after they are already in jail," Baine stated.
However, Baine acknowledged that HIV prevalence among inmates is higher than the national average. While the national HIV prevalence stands at 6.5%, within prisons it reaches 13% for females and 11% for males.
"If the HIV prevalence was solely a result of homosexuality, as alleged in the media, why is it high among females? The figures quoted were based on our own examination of inmates during entry or medical check-ups," Baine clarified.
Media reports had suggested that the HIV prevalence among inmates was primarily due to homosexuality. However, Baine emphasized that some inmates contract HIV due to ignorance about the various modes of transmission.
"Some inmates may unknowingly use sharp objects like razorblades for personal hygiene, and others may even share these objects without considering the risk of HIV transmission," Baine explained.
Currently, UPS manages a total of 76,493 inmates across the country, overseen by 14,461 personnel deployed at 269 prison stations. Overcrowding within these facilities has often been cited as a contributing factor to same-sex relationships among inmates.
