‘Know your HIV status’ community urged

COMMUNITY members gathering in Mzingazi on Saturday to commemorate World Aids Day, were urged to know their HIV status.

This was encouraged by various speakers at the Nzalabantu sport field, including KZN MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Bongi Sithole-Moloi, who expressed the need for continued conversations and education on HIV/Aids.

The commemoration began with a 5km fun walk to encourage people to exercise and live healthy lifestyles.

‘It is good that we started this day with a walk, because through exercise and correct, healthy eating, one’s body is able to fight illness,’ said Sithole-Moloi said, marking 30 years of World Aids Day.

‘We want to educate, support and encourage one another because we are all affected by the virus in one way or another.’

She also spoke out against discriminating against people living with HIV/Aids.

ALSO READ: ‘Let’s talk to our children about sex and HIV’

‘Previously this was not a topic for discussion, but a lot has changed and we continue to make great strides in the continued fight against HIV and Aids.’

She further urged people to take advantage of available care provided at health facilities.

King Cetshwayo District Mayor, Nonhle Mkhulisi, said among the biggest challenges in the fight against the HIV/Aids is denial and ignorance.

‘We must be health conscious and know our bodies and take care of ourselves accordingly,’ Mkhuisi said.

Mkhulisi also unveiled ‘Qhawekazi’ (Cash-Plus-Care), an initiative by the district in partnership with the Department of Treasury.

Qhawekazi is aimed at influencing social behaviour through war room interventions. The programme currently accommodates 19 300 girls between the ages of 19-24, who attend monthly empowerment sessions conducted in community war rooms.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 072 069 4169

Instagram – zululand_observer