5 Ways you can show your support this World Aids Day

On 1 December, we observe World Aids Day to honour those living with HIV/Aids, remember the many who have succumbed to the illness, and renew the commitment to ending the epidemic. The 2024 theme ‘Equality in Action: Breaking Barriers Together’ emphasises the importance of eliminating disparities in access to treatment, prevention and care while fostering global solidarity.

2024 facts about HIV/Aids

· Global efforts have reduced the rate of new HIV infections, but nearly 1.3 million new infections were reported in 2024.
· Over 39 million people are living with HIV, with nearly 21 million residing in sub-Saharan Africa.
· Over 7.8 million South Africans are living with HIV.
· Over 6 million individuals in South Africa are receiving ART.
· As of 2024, 29.5 million people are on antiretroviral therapy.
· Aids-related deaths have declined, but approximately 510 000 deaths were reported in 2024.

What can you do to commemorate World Aids Day?

Whether you’re an individual, a business, or part of a community organisation, there are many ways to support World AIDS Day in South Africa:

1. Know your status
Early detection and intervention save lives, so get tested and encourage others to visit local clinics and mobile testing centres.

2. Support local organisations
There are lots of local organisations that are active in preventing, treating, and educating about Aids. You can donate to or work with these organisations to expand access to testing, treatment, and education. Some of these include:

· The Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation
· Treatment Action Campaign (TAC)
· South African National AIDS Council (SANAC)

3. Wear the ribbon
You can wear a red ribbon on World Aids Day – and encourage others to do the same – to show you’re in solidarity with people living with HIV/Aids.

4. Support awareness events
Participate in or organise events like community walks, educational talks, or fundraisers. On World Aids Day, you can find an awareness event in your area to support.

5. Advocate for equality
Push for policies that promote equal access to healthcare, challenge stigma, and combat discrimination. Engage with policymakers and use your voice on social media.

World AIDS Day 2024 is a reminder that the fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over, particularly in our country with the highest rate worldwide. South Africa’s progress demonstrates that with collective action, we can break barriers, reduce infections, and ensure equitable access to life-saving treatments. Together, we can work toward a future free from AIDS.

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