Fisherfolk

Fishing communities along the shores and islands of Lake Victoria experience some of the highest rates of HIV in the country. A study among fisherfolk communities in Uganda showed high HIV prevalence (28.8%) and incidence (4.9 per 100 person-years) — figures about four to five times higher than the national averages. These communities are recognised as a key “most at risk population” for HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.

Working with the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), the Unit has run open cohort studies of at-risk adults recruited from fishing sites along Lake Victoria in Masaka, spanning both lakeshore landing sites and island communities. These studies estimate population-level HIV prevalence and incidence, examine risk factors and transmission, and assess willingness to participate in future vaccine trials

Supported by a clinical research centre in Masaka with a Good Clinical Laboratory Practice–accredited laboratory, a vaccine pharmacy, and GCP-trained staff, the fisherfolk cohorts have contributed key epidemiological evidence on HIV in high-incidence populations and continue to underpin HIV prevention, PrEP and vaccine-preparedness research. The linked data and samples are a resource for ongoing and future studies.