DCM commemorates World AIDS Day and emphasises healthy living
"The government is offering treatment for everyone. It is vital for one to know his or her status. We support those who are infected and encourage those who are negative to remain negative. We encourage those infected to continue taking their medication."
World AIDS Day is commemorated each year on December 1 and it is an opportunity for every community to unite in the fight against the HIV/Aids scourge, to show support for people living with HIV/Aids and remembering those who have succumbed to the pandemic.
Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (DCM) in partnership with the Limpopo Department of Health commemorated the World AIDS Day on December 3 at Ngwaabe Clinic at Ga Rantho.
The event was attended by the tribal authorities, representatives from Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality, senior officials from the Department of Health and community members in the Ngwaabe area.
DCM and the health department revealed that they aimed at creating awareness and consoling those infected. Community members got an opportunity to get tested for HIV/Aids. They also received gifts such as T-shirts for getting tested. Pius Monyela of DCM said they aim to encourage the youth and adults to get tested.
“Gone are the days we were scared to be tested. Please get tested, and live a healthy lifestyle.
“The government is offering treatment for everyone. It is vital for one to know his or her status. We support those who are infected and encourage those who are negative to remain negative. We encourage those infected to continue taking their medication.”
Selinah Matjomane, who is living with the virus, thanked the department and the stakeholders for supporting the HIV victims. She shared with the public the way in which she lives a healthy lifestyle.
“I found that I was positive back in 2005, I am still strong and beautiful. I am taking my treatment as advised by the nurses and eating healthy.”
Ngwaabe Clinic’s manager Phindiwe Motebu also encouraged those who are infected to come receive their treatment at the clinic. “We have about 1 500 people who are infected at our clinic. Sadly, only 20 per cent are consistent in taking their medication.
“The clinic is ready to assist with counselling and ensuring people get the treatment for this pandemic. If we test you and discover that you are infected, we immediately start with the treatment.”
The day session was concluded with the handing over of food parcels to more than 600 locals, mostly the elderly. The groceries were made possible by DCM and Provest. During the event a moment of silence was observed and the candles were lit for the departed.
