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The Senqu Local AIDS Council, together with the Senqu Sub-District of the Eastern Cape Department of Health, hosted a World AIDS Day Commemoration at Khwezi Community Hall. The event brought residents, health workers, and community groups together to honour people living with HIV and push for stronger prevention and treatment programmes.
What Happened
The commemoration opened with a two-kilometre fun walk against gender-based violence and femicide. The walk promoted visibility, safety, and unity, while reinforcing the call to end all forms of discrimination.
Inside the hall, speakers outlined the year’s theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” They urged residents to make informed choices and support friends, family members, and neighbours living with HIV.
Health teams offered free HIV testing, TB screening, blood pressure checks, glucose tests, and minor-ailment care. The event drew broad support from community organisations, including LGBTQI+ groups, Inkciyo, the Men’s Forum, Humana, Lisakhanya, and faith-based leaders.
Official Response
Health officials stressed the need for consistent community involvement.
“Our progress grows when we stand together. We must strengthen prevention, treatment, and support for every person in Senqu,” said a Department of Health representative.
Municipal leaders added that partnerships remain vital for breaking stigma and improving early detection.
Community Impact
Residents welcomed the event as another step toward a healthier and more informed community. Many said the mix of health services and awareness programmes helps families understand risks and access care sooner.
As a result, the province continues to push toward its goal of ending TB and reducing new HIV infections by 2030.
