The Ripple Effect of Saying 'YES': How a Simple Decision is Shaping the Future of HIV Prevention and Empowering a Local Business

A COMMENTARY BY BELINDA NAMUTEBI 

Some of the world’s most pressing issues are just one 'YES' away from being solved. A simple  'YES' can have a transformative impact, whether advancing healthcare innovations to combat HIV or addressing the needs of a dedicated pineapple trader on Entebbe Road. That  'YES' could come from you, a decision-maker, or anyone with the power to make a difference.

Last month, I was privileged to listen to Dr. Flavia Matovu Kiweewa, the Uganda National Principal Investigator for the PURPOSE 1 study on Injectable Lenacapavir (LEN). LEN is a groundbreaking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) innovation that marks a significant advancement in HIV prevention. Recent clinical trials in Uganda, supported by GILEAD, have shown a 100% success rate, making, LEN-once approved by international regulatory authorities, a beacon of hope for a future where HIV transmission could be significantly reduced, if not eliminated.

When the Ministry of Health (Uganda), regulatory authorities, MU-JHU, healthcare providers, and community members in Kalangala, Masaka, and Mityana joined resources to support this trial, they were saying  'YES' to HIV research and innovation, ‘YES’ to curbing new HIV infections, and ‘YES’ to advance the collective action to end AIDS by 2030.

Similarly, last week, social media was filled with the heartwarming story of Ms. Night Ampulire, a pineapple trader on Entebbe Road, who received a boost for her business from the telecom player MTN Uganda. Before MTN knew her name, Ms. Ampulire had already said ‘YES’ to her circumstances. She said ‘YES’ to supporting her children as a single mother, ‘YES’ to the opportunity to do business, and ‘YES’ to serving her customers every day despite the poor condition of her car.

Her unwavering spirit caught the attention of many, and her story soon aired on national television, NTV. Inspired by her resilience and determination, MTN responded by saying ‘YES’ to making a difference in her life. Last Thursday, MTN gifted her a brand-new hard-body pickup truck equipped with housing to support her pineapple business better.

MTN Uganda’s generous act illustrates the power of private organisations saying “YES” to changing lives in our communities. For Ms. Ampulire, the new vehicle is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a tool that empowers her to grow her business, support her family, and pursue her dreams. It demonstrates how support and encouragement can profoundly impact someone’s journey.

The LEN PrEP innovation and Ms. Ampulire’s story are deeply rooted in the community. The success of the LEN study in Uganda was made possible because communities in Kalangala, Masaka, and Mityana (districts in central Uganda) said ‘YES’ to participating in the research. Their consent and involvement were crucial in advancing this groundbreaking HIV prevention tool, highlighting how community support can drive significant healthcare innovations.

Likewise, Ms. Ampulire’s story is a testament to the power of community. When she said ‘YES’ to share her story, despite the vulnerability it might bring, she opened up about her challenges and hopes, allowing others to see the strength and resilience in her journey. These stories are not just outcomes of individual actions but are results of collective engagement and trust. They remind us that when communities come together and say ‘YES,’ they lay the groundwork for transformative change.

Saying ‘YES’ to LEN and MTN’s decision to support Ms. Ampulire are more than just single actions; they are catalysts for more significant change, sparking a ripple effect that demonstrates how saying “YES” can enhance our collective efforts to solve problems and inspire others to take positive action. 

This is especially important for groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, like LEN. To fully realise the potential of this innovative HIV prevention tool, we need more people to step up and say “YES.” Now is the time for drug manufacturers, donors, and global health leaders to commit to a future free from HIV. We urge drug manufacturers to speed up the production and distribution of LEN, ensuring fair pricing and addressing restrictive drug patents. This will make LEN widely accessible to those who need it most. We also call on donors, including PEPFAR and the Global Fund, to prioritise funding for this life-saving medication, allowing for widespread access in communities most affected by HIV.

Every ‘YES’ brings us closer to solving the world’s most challenging problems. Using our resources or positions of influence, our ‘YES’ can open doors to new opportunities and empower those striving to overcome challenges.

Will you say ‘YES’ today? The world is waiting for you.

The writer is a seasoned branding & communications practitioner with over two decades of experience. You can connect with her here.