13 May 2019

Different churches and civil servants converged at the Palapye Main Kgotla on May 12 to hold a candle light ceremony.

When giving remarks at the occasion, Palapye District AIDS coordinator, Mr Ernest Thuso stated that the annual candle light event had been taking place since 1983, to give hope and support to those living with HIV and also to remember those who had  succumbed to the disease.

He explained that Botswana was facing challenges of new HIV infections, adding that children had also fallen victim to infections due defilement.

He advised those older people engaging that behaviour to desist because they were destroying the future generation of this country.

He said another concern was growing instances of no protection usage in prostitution and homosexual relationships.

Mr Thuso encouraged Batswana to go for HIV tests to know their status and follow the HIV therapy if positive.

He said the passing of a lit candle from one person to the other at the kgotla during the occasion signified giving light of hope to other Batswana and to encourage them to move away from darkness.

He said people must believe in God, attend church as the institution would give them light and guide them to live positive lives, adding that the DAC office and churches in Palapye, had agreed to arrange HIV testing at churches at least once a month.

For his part, chairperson of the Ministers Fraternal, Reverend Jona Sibanda said candle light spiritually signifies the light of God being passed on to people so that they do not live in darkness.

He said the candle light ceremony was held to remember those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

He said the event was also held to give support and hope for the future.

Meanwhile, Kgosi Masego Olebile acknowledged churches for converging at the kgotla to hold the candle light session and encouraged churches which were not able to attend to do so next time.

He said the candle light event, which takes place nationally, needs to be respected and taken seriously as it also encourages churches to work together in the fight against HIV and other diseases.

He said through the event, church members from different denominations also had a chance to mingle and get to know one another. ENDS