The meeting is a regular feature of the Uganda AIDS Commission’s coordination framework. It consists mainly of specially selected, state of the art and peer-reviewed presentations on different aspects of HIV and AIDS. The meeting is an important platform for dissemination of research findings, thus contributing to the evidence base for managing HIV and AIDS. The National HIV and AIDS Scientific meeting will be held alongside the Joint AIDS Review and will also feature The Philly Lutaaya Memorial Lecture.
Theme: “My Contribution Towards Ending AIDS by 2030”

Goal
To share evidence from research, experiences from applied HIV/AIDS interventions, strategies and practices in prevention, treatment, care, support, as well as coordination and overall management of the HIV and AIDS response.
Specific objectives
1. To showcase completed, ongoing, and planned research in HIV and AIDS in Uganda
2. To provide a platform for scientists and other stakeholders in the national HIV response to share and discuss current breakthroughs in HIV implementation science
3. To provide a platform for emerging scientists, young scientists, and civil society researchers with limited research experience to interact and engage with established HIV and AIDS scientists and explore opportunities for learning, mentorship, collaboration, and growth
4. To formulate priority actions in the use of science and innovation to accelerate achievement of the Presidential Fast Track Initiative (PFTI) and NSP goals

Participation
Participation is open to all. Expression of interest is through registration and/or submission of abstracts.

Registration
Registration begins on 15 August and ends 30 October 2023. Registration forms can be received by email on request. Participants interested in exhibiting their works will do so by expression of interest, through registering and an exhibition form will also be available at the UAC office.

Abstracts will run along the following tracks:

1. Epidemiology, HIV Prevention
 Safer sexual behavior and reduction in high-risk behaviors among key populations, priority populations and the general population
 Implementation studies of new HIV prevention technologies
 Program evaluation and optimization for the elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV
 Harm reduction program
 Early infant diagnosis
 Mitigation of socio-structural, cultural, gender and other factors that drive the HIV epidemic

2. Basic Science, HIV Care, HIV Treatment
 Treatment options, viral load suppression, drug resistance
 Optimizing linkage to care
 Adherence to ART and retention in HIV care
 Comorbidities and coinfections, general health, mental health
 Integration of HIV care and treatment with other health services
 HIV and AIDS Cure
 Natural and traditional remedies, physical exercise, nutrition, and spirituality

3. Social Support, Human Rights, Gender
 Describing HIV related stigma and stigma reduction interventions
 Interventions to reduce vulnerability to HIV and AIDS
 Gender based violence and discrimination
 Child protection and reducing violence against children
 Equity and social inclusion

4. Systems Strengthening, HIV and AIDS Financing
 Effectiveness of national leadership and coordination frameworks
 Workforce for delivery of HIV services
 Innovations for optimizing the HIV supply chain systems
 Infrastructure for delivery of HIV services
 Community systems
 Strategic information for the response including sub-group prevalence, size estimations for key, vulnerable, and priority populations
 Increased information sharing and data utilization
 Innovative methods for epidemiologic, implementation, and translational research .

Guidelines for Abstract submission. Please read the following guidelines carefully before submitting your abstract:
1. All abstracts should be written in English. Authors whose abstracts are not in English should contact the organizing committee for guidance.
2. Abstracts should be submitted online via the conference email: nhasug2023@gmail.com
3. An abstract form and an Information Note can be picked from the UAC offices or accessed via email on request (use conference email above or the contacts below)
4. Abstracts will be received from 15 August– 15 October 2023.
5. Notice of accepted papers for oral or poster presentations will be sent to authors by 30th October 2023
6. Upcoming, young, and junior scientists are especially encouraged to apply, as the conference provides a platform for them to engage with senior scientists and explore opportunities for mentorship, training, and growth in scientific expertise

Contacts
1. Dr. Stephen B. Asiimwe
Email: stephen.asiimwe@uac.go.ug 
Tel: +256 775 033271

2. Ms.Tatwebwa Lilian
Email: lilian.tatwebwa@uac.go.ug 
ltatwebwa@gmail.com 
Tel: +256 772 479402

3. Dr. Peter Wakooba
Email: peter.wakooba@uac.go.ug 
Tel: +256 782 308719

4. Ms. Ruth Nandugwa
Email: ruth.nandugwa@uac.go.ug 
Tel: +256 782 878520

5. Ms. Margie Bayigga
Email: margie.bayigga@uac.go.ug 
Tel: +256 775 355513

6. Dr. Zepher Karyabakabo
Email: zepher.karyabakabo@uac.go.ug
Tel: Mob. +256 772 681785