AHEAD of World Aids Day, the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) reflects on its ongoing role in addressing the local HIV/Aids context, where some communities face prevalence rates of twice the national average.

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Celebrated annually on December 1, World Aids Day (WAD) serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/Aids and the need for global solidarity.

In commemoration, HACT will host a candle-lighting and remembrance ceremony on November 29 at the garden of their on-site Othandweni Respite and Palliative Care Unit.

Speaking on the WAD 2024 theme, ‘Take the Rights Path’, HACT’s CEO Candace Moolman said, “In the face of funding shortages and capacity constraints, we must all ‘own’ the issue of HIV and Aids to ensure progress isn’t lost. There is an international call to link progress to human rights and strengthen health systems to end Aids.”

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Moolman emphasised that HIV remains a significant public health issue, particularly in regions with high prevalence rates. “Collectively, if we don’t push forward for progress toward HIV goals, many lives will continue to be vulnerable and sadly, lost. Change does not depend on a moment but on a movement.”

HACT expressed gratitude to partners and supporters who strengthen its holistic services to address HIV and Aids. The public is invited to join HACT in reflecting and remembering this WAD on November 29 at 10:00. For more information, contact marketing@hillaids.org.za.

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