HIV pandemic and gender-based violence can be overcome says Mr David Mabuza
DD Mabuza said more needs to be done to fight against HIV and Aids.
SECUNDA – One HIV infection is one too many.
These were the words of Mr David Mabuza, deputy president, addressing the South African National Aids Council’s (Sanac) extended plenary session at Graceland on Saturday, 23 November.
He said working with partners in civil society and in the business community, it is possible to reverse the HIV pandemic that has affected about 7.4-million people who are HIV-positive.
He said earlier this year the Department of Health reported that just over 838 000 people tested positive for HIV for the period from January to December 2018.
The highest incidence rates were recorded in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape.
Mr Mabuza said Mpumalanga had 76 007 new HIV-positive cases.
“We need to continue putting in practical and decisive measures to reduce this level of incidence as we know how disproportionally it affects young women.
“As government, we want to use the district-based implementation model to assist in dealing with health threats at community level.
“The district development model is critical in the strengthening of our provincial and district AIDS councils.
“In this regard, we will be working closely with district mayors and strengthen district AIDS councils to give effect to improving our collective delivery outcomes.”
He said they have taken a decision for the Sanac plenary committee to visit high-burden HIV and TB provinces and districts.
He called on their partners in civil society and in the private sector to work with government.
“It is within our grasp to reverse the HIV pandemic and conquer gender-based violence.
“We can, and we will, win the battle by working together with all stakeholders in our schools, in our homes, at boardrooms, and in workplaces.
“The abuse, murder, and rape of women, children, persons with disabilities, lesbians, gays, and transgender people must be addressed as part of our comprehensive response to the challenges of HIV and Aids.”
