07 Mar 2016

Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ms Botlogile Tshireletso has urged all stakeholders to support the youth during the Month of Youth Against HIV/AIDS (MAYA) and beyond as they are the most affected by the epidemic.

Speaking during MAYA commemoration by the ministry on Friday under the theme: Zero new HIV infection, zero discrimination, zero AIDS related deaths, Ms Tshireletso encouraged people to take responsibility for their lives, adding that it was encouraging to see people coming out to declare their status and educating others about HIV/AIDS without fear of being discriminated or victimised.

For her part, the secretary of local government reforms, Dr Tlamelo Sekambo noted that the youth formed a large part of the country’s population, and that they were the most affected by HIV/AIDS hence the need for all stakeholders to play a significant role to combat the virus.

Dr Sekambo urged all people to support the youth and extend a helping hand by availing resources to them. She also urged people to embrace those living with HIV/AIDS and never to discriminate them. They need love, support and encouragement to take treatment, she added.

Meanwhile, Ms Masego Kewamodimo from Potlako Emergency Trainers said she was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at the age of 10 after her parents died due to the epidemic. 

Ms Kewamodimo noted that she has been living with HIV for 21 years, and that she has been taking treatment for 13 years. She added that she faced a lot of discrimination after going public about her status, arguing that people living with HIV/AIDS should be treated equally. 

For his part, pastor Israel Tshikare said March was declared the Month of Youth against HIV/AIDS hence the need for everyone to stand up in prayer since the disease has been in the country for 35 years.

Pastor Tshikare said people should stop pointing fingers, but unite to fight the scourge. 

Assistant Ministers, Ms Tshireletso and Mr France Van Der Westhuizen lighted candles to support those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Ends