SEBOKENG.- The Acting Premier of the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), Lebogang Maile, along with the Gauteng AIDS Council, MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, and the Executive Mayors of the Sedibeng District Municipality (SDM), Lerato Maloka, and Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM), Sipho Radebe commemorated World AIDS Day in Sebokeng last week.

The event took place at the Saul Tsotetsi Sports Complex in Zone 14.

This year’s commemoration centred on the theme “Let communities lead,” recognising the invaluable role of communities in spearheading the response to HIV.

Provincial government officials emphasised the crucial role that communities affected by HIV play in advancing progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Nkomo Ralehoko stated: “We gather here in Sebokeng not just as a community, but as a united force in the global battle against HIV/AIDS.

This day, observed annually on December 1st, provides a crucial opportunity for us to reflect on our achievements, address the challenges ahead, and reassert our commitment to eradicating this epidemic.

We honour and remember those lost to this disease, a poignant reminder of why our battle is so vital. Their memory fuels our determination to prevent new infections, support those living with HIV, and ultimately discover a cure. We stand in solidarity with the millions worldwide affected by HIV/AIDS, recognizing the profound impact this virus has had on communities, families, and individuals.”

The Gauteng AIDS Council outlined its strategies to achieve the 95/95/95 targets, aiming to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those aware of their HIV positive status receive antiretroviral treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.