Noerine Kaleeba

Ugandan social activist and health advocate

Noerine Kaleeba is a prominent Ugandan social activist and health advocate, known for her pioneering work in the field of HIV/AIDS awareness and support. She is a co-founder of The AIDS Support Organization (TASO), one of the largest indigenous African organizations providing support to people living with HIV/AIDS.

Early Life and Education

Noerine Kaleeba was born in Uganda, where she grew up and pursued her education. She attended local schools before enrolling at Makerere University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Africa. At Makerere, she studied physiotherapy, a field that would later influence her approach to health advocacy.

Career

Founding of TASO

In the mid-1980s, Uganda was one of the countries hardest hit by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. In response to the growing crisis, Noerine Kaleeba, along with a group of friends and colleagues, founded The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) in 1987. TASO was established to provide support, counseling, and medical care to individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. The organization quickly grew in size and influence, becoming a model for community-based HIV/AIDS support worldwide.

Noerine Kaleeba speaking at a conference

International Advocacy

Kaleeba's work with TASO brought her international recognition, and she became a leading voice in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. She has worked with numerous international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), advocating for increased funding and support for HIV/AIDS programs in Africa.

Role in UNAIDS

Noerine Kaleeba served as a UNAIDS ambassador, where she played a crucial role in shaping global policies on HIV/AIDS. Her efforts have been instrumental in promoting the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and reducing stigma associated with the disease.

Personal Life

Noerine Kaleeba is married and has children. Her personal experiences with HIV/AIDS, including the loss of her husband to the disease, have deeply influenced her commitment to the cause. She continues to be an active advocate for health and social justice in Uganda and beyond.

Legacy and Impact

Noerine Kaleeba's work has had a profound impact on the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa. Her leadership in founding TASO has provided a lifeline to thousands of individuals and families affected by the disease. Her advocacy has also helped to change perceptions of HIV/AIDS, promoting a more compassionate and supportive approach to those living with the virus.

Related Pages

• HIV/AIDS in Africa
• The AIDS Support Organization
• UNAIDS
• World Health Organization