Every year on December 1, international communities commemorate World Aids Day in remembrance of those who have died of and those who live with the disease.
One such event was held at Dukuza Sports Ground in Okhahlamba Municipality under the theme: “It is my right to know my status, prevention is my responsibility”. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Willies Mchunu, in his capacity as District Champion, was a keynote speaker.
The Office of the Premier in partnership with UThukela District Municipality, the departments of Health, Social Development, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) as well as various non-governmental organisations were some of the stakeholders who graced the event.
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The Premier started the event by briefing stakeholders in a closed session at Dukuza Tribal Court early in the morning. Hundreds of community members who had gathered in the marquee waited patiently for the leadership to deliver a variety of speeches on HIV and other related health issues affecting the society today.
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The event was started by lighting a red candle as a symbol of respect and remembrance of those who have lost their lives to the virus and people living with the disease.In his welcome remarks, uThukela District Mayor Cllr AS Mazibuko was straight to point out that everybody knows the impact of HIV in our lives and is also aware of the impact of the disease.
“As we are commemorating World Aids Day today, we are also in the period of 16 Days of Activism for Non-Violence Against Women and Children campaign. We call upon all men to play their role in protecting women and children from abuse and also prevent the spread of HIV,” said Cllr Mazibuko.
The Mayor encouraged men to visit the clinics to undergo routine check-ups and HIV tests.
Delivering his keynote address, the Premier was optimistic that we can beat the HIV if we can work together.
“The province of KwaZulu-Natal has taken a big step forward in combating the epidemic. We must therefore work together with all structures within our communities, which include religious denominations, traditional leaders, non-governmental organisations, all spheres of government and so on,” the Premier said.
Mr Mchunu also encouraged all men to undergo medical male circumcision in order to respond to the call by King Zwelithini to combat the disease. He emphasised that men must make sure that they protect their families from being infected with the disease.
He also said that we must all make it our responsibility to fight against the devastating effects of HIV and encouraged those who are already infected to take their medication properly. Messages of support were received from the Department of Health and District Aids Council.
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