06 Jun 2024

 The National AIDS and Health Promotion Agency (NAHPA) in collaboration with The Botswana Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS (BONEPWA) will commemorate the International AIDS Candlelight memorial on June 9 at Tlokweng Kgotla.

A press release from NAPHA says Minister of Communications, Knowledge and Science who is also Tlokweng MP , Mr Thulagano Segokgo will deliver the keynote address. It explains that the commemoration held for the first time in 1983 was meant to honour all those who have been affected by AIDS pandemic.

 The release further sates that the memorial also  provides an opportunity for friends and family to come together and offer support and comfort during difficult times.

“The act of lighting a candle serves as a physical reminder of their presence, illuminating the room and symbolising the light they brought into lives” says the release.

It further states that the memorial event promotes discussion, education, and action around HIV/AIDS with the objectives of honouring the memory of those lost to AIDS, show support for those living with HIV and AIDS, raise community awareness and decrease stigma related to HIV/AIDS and mobilize community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The memorial will be commemorated under the theme: Together We Remember, Together We Heal, Through Love and Solidarity.

A motorcade procession will precede the commemoration at 12 pm from Tlokweng Kgotla and the event will start at 2pm.

The Candlelight Memorial involves all sectors of the local community including NGOs, government, faith-based groups, and community members in the fight against HIV/AIDS. ENDS