Rural areas of Western Equatoria bear brunt of HIV prevalence

The high HIV prevalence rates in Western Equatoria continue to be an issue of concern, as the area struggles to rebuild after conflict and insecurity.

Western Equatoria has the highest HIV prevalence rate in the country, standing at 6.8 percent, based on data collected by the National HIV/AIDS commission in 2012.

Authorities worry the rates may rise as many people in rural areas do not have access to health services.

The AIDS Commission in Western Equatoria blames this on public reluctance and insecurity that has made it difficult to deliver testing kits, medicines and preventive materials to communities.

Peter Daniel Kisira is the Director for the AIDS Commission in Western Equatoria.

He spoke to Felix Katie in this interview and started by explaining how the commission has stepped up preparations for World AIDS Day on 01 December.