The Aids Support Organisation (TASO)

Introduction The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) is an indigenous HIV and AIDS service initiative, registered in Uganda as a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). It is a pioneer non-public actor in the HIV and AIDS response in Uganda and sub Saharan Africa. TASO is a membership organisation with over 4,000 subscriber members. Since inception in 1987, TASO grown into a household name in the HIV and AIDS response in the country. It is now one of the largest institutions providing the most comprehensive HIV prevention, care and support services. The Founding of TASO TASO was founded in 1987 by Noerine Kaleeba and a group of 15 volunteers who were determined to do something to fight against AIDS. At that time, little was known about the disease but had caused unprecedented stigma and discrimination to the individuals and families associated with it. The membership of the founding group consisted of Chanda Williams, Charles Sentamu(RIP), Christopher Kaleeba(RIP),Collins Williams, Dan Otoole (RIP), David Lule (RIP),  Dr. Jane Mulemwa, Dr. Noerine Kaleeba, Jason Bazzebulala (RIP), Lydia Tamale, Mary K. Lukubo, Nampologoma (RIP), Nesta Banyenzaki (RIP), Peter Sebanja, Prof. Elly Katabira and Rose Ojamuge (RIP). Among the group members, seven of them were living with HIV. TASO Mission and Vision Since inception, TASO Mission has remained to; “To contribute to a process of preventing HIV infection, restoring hope and improving the quality of life of persons, families and communities affected by HIV infection and disease” The TASO Vision is to see; “A World without HIV” The TASO Philosophy is; “Living positively with HIV” Living Positively with HIV is about understanding the implications of HIV infection and undertaking positive choices to prevent HIV infection and copying with the challenges associated with it. Living Positively with HIV also entails adopting strategies that enhance the quality of life and wellbeing. Living positively applies to HIV positive and HIV negative people, families, communities as well as institutions for better health and socio-economic outcomes. TASO Values Obligation to people infected and affected by HIV infection and disease Equal rights, equal opportunities and shared responsibilities Human dignity Integrity Family spirit