Health Minister launches SA Human Rights Plan

NEWLY appointed national health minister, Zweli Mkhize yesterday launched  South Africa’s Human Rights Plan at the Gugu Dlamini Park in Durban.
Speaking at the start of the ninth SA AIDS Conference at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) from 11 to 14 June, Mkhize said the plan aims at fighting against human rights violations in response to HIV, TB, and gender related service barriers.

He said goal five of the strategic plan contains the reduction of stigma and discrimination among people living with HIV or TB.

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“This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by people in the fight against HIV/AIDS and those who  lost their lives such as Gugu Dlamini. It also reminds us about the people who did not have access to anti-ritual virus drugs back in the days. Most of these lives were lost because someone fail to ensure that human right of the individual are always met,” said Mkhize.

“Gugu Dlamini’s passing is indeed an example of the price paid because we have not been able to fully address the stigma and discrimination in our society. Every one of us must double our efforts in ensuring that no one is discriminated against their status,” added Mkhize.

Dlamini was stoned to death after disclosing her HIV status in 1998 KwaMashu.

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