Ekurhuleni joins the world in commemorating World Aids Day

“The misconception that an HIV-positive status is a death sentence must be eradicated,” said HIV/Aids activist

December 4, 2020

Boksburg Advertiser 1 minute read

Gladys Hlophe, an HIV/Aids activist, took part in the dialogue and said, "Gone are the days when people died from HIV, but rather die from stigma."

The City of Ekurhuleni joined the world in commemorating World Aids Day on December 1, with a ceremonial releasing of balloons at the OR Tambo Government Precinct Administration Building in Germiston.
The head of human resource department, Naledi Modibedi, presided over the balloon release ceremony, and let 50 balloons soar into the sky in remembrance of the City’s employees and residents who have died due to HIV/Aids-related illnesses.
The metro also hosted a dialogue at the Germiston Civic Centre. During the event led by the Speaker of Council Alderman Patricia Kumalo, eminent members of the community had the opportunity to converse on societal ills.
Speaking at the dialogue, Gladys Hlophe, an HIV/Aids activist, reiterated that the misconception that an HIV-positive status is a death sentence must be eradicated.
“Being HIV positive is a chronic illness. Gone are the days when people died from HIV, but rather people die from stigma. Let us show love and respect to those infected and affected by HIV,” said Hlophe.
Hlophe commended health practitioners for making strides in treatment of HIV/Aids, as patients have moved from taking three pills a day to one pill a day. This has also increased the life expectancy of people living with HIV/Aids.