A new study has found that Uganda’s harsh anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, particularly the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act, is undermining efforts to combat HIV, especially among young people and marginalised communities.
Known internationally as the “Kill the Gays” law, the Anti-Homosexuality Act imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty for individuals convicted of engaging in same-sex sexual activity. Since its introduction, access to inclusive health services, particularly for LGBTIQA+ individuals, has been drastically reduced.
With strict legal restrictions on any programs seen as supporting LGBTQ+ people, much of Uganda’s HIV education and prevention work is now carried out by faith-based organisations. However, these providers have often been reported to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals from their services.
The report was compiled by the Universal Coalition of Affirming Africans Uganda (UCAA-UG), in collaboration with the Friends of Canon Gideon Foundation (FOCAGIFO). It explores the role of religion in shaping HIV stigma, service uptake, and treatment adherence among LGBTQ+ people in Uganda.
UCAA-UG, founded in 2017, is the first faith-based organisation in Uganda dedicated to advocating for the inclusion of marginalised groups through religious and spiritual frameworks. The organisation was formed in response to the growing misuse of religion to justify discrimination and the erosion of human rights.
The report confirms what public health experts have long understood: stigma and discrimination remain key barriers to addressing the HIV epidemic. Uganda continues to face a serious HIV crisis, particularly among people aged 15–24.
The study used both interviews and statistical analysis to assess the situation. While 70% of faith leaders interviewed said their facilities provide HIV-related support, only 30% admitted to offering these services to LGBTQ+ individuals. Many leaders who expressed a desire to be more inclusive said they feared excommunication or being criminally charged for “promoting homosexuality”.
LGBTQ+ respondents shared that many faith leaders perceive their identities as sinful or cursed. These negative religious narratives, they say, directly contribute to social stigma and discourage people from seeking medical support, even when their lives may depend on it.
In addition, services outside of the religious sphere, including those run by neutral or secular organisations, were often publicly criticised by churches and religious groups, creating further barriers to access.
The report concludes with strong recommendations for improving HIV services, including the repeal of anti-LGBTQ+ laws and increased advocacy for inclusive healthcare. It also highlights the role religious leaders could play in shifting the narrative.
“Faith leaders must demonstrate active leadership in HIV response by integrating stigma reduction, inclusive messaging, and service promotion into their ministry and outreach,” the researchers wrote.
“This means preaching compassion, hosting HIV education sessions, and visibly supporting access to care for all, including LGBTQ+ individuals.”
