More than 600 young and old people comprising of uniformed members and the defence civilians working at Air Force Base Hoedspruit, gathered for a march at Kamogelo centre Maruleng, Hoedspruit town on December 1.
The purpose of the gathering was to unite in the fight against HIV Aids, to show support to those living with HIV-Aids and to commemorate those who died from Aids related illnesses. Among those who came for the march were members of Hlokomela Organization, SAPS and Maruleng Traffic Police.
“It was extremely important for all members of the base regardless of their rank, position, age, sex, race or creed, to gather together to make an awareness and support those affected and infected with this dreadful disease. All of us has a role and responsibility to play, that is to educate each other and our children so that the coming generation may live within the society that is free from HIV”, said Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Hattingh, acting officer commanding Air Force Base Hoedspruit.
All members were reminded to use the necessary protective equipments available in order to become safe from the disease.
Captain Dekeledi Phaane from Hoedspruit Health Centre echoed the same sentiments for all people to unite each other in support of those living with HIV.
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The following people led the group in lighting the candle in remembrance of those who died: Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Hattingh, South African Air Force Chaplain (SAAF Chaplain) Wonke Buqa, Major Joyce Matlala, Captain Dikeledi Phaane, Candy Nkgogo and Paulinah Marula.
A two minute silence was observed. Candy Nkgogo and Mr Johannes du Preez from Hlokomela coordinated the activities which among others included the choir group, corporate branding with Hlokomela t-shirt to all who came as well as HIV-Aids testing.
“World aids day was first commemorated in London on the 01 December 1988, while, in South Africa the celebration happened for the first time ever on December 1, 1996”, stated Major Joyce Matlala.
“HIV does not make people dangerous to know, so you can shake their hands, give them a hug. Heavens knows they need it”, Princess Diana.
