Mbabane – Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development S’khumbuzo Dlamini led a candle lighting ceremony today to remember those lost to HIV and AIDS and show support for people living with the virus.
Speaking at the event, Minister Dlamini said, “The Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development is committed to supporting all Government initiatives that promote the availability of HIV services. The Ministry also works tirelessly to overcome disruptions and transform our AIDS response. Let us all unite in this fight and stand together against HIV and AIDS. Together, we can achieve an AIDS-Free Eswatini by 2030. By overcoming disruptions and transforming our response, we can ensure a brighter future for all.”
He encouraged residents to take charge of their health, saying, “I encourage everyone to take control of their health and get tested! Knowing your status is the first step towards a healthy and happy life.”
Mphiwa Dlamini, representing the National Emergency Response Council on HIV and AIDS (NERCHA), explained that this year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruptions and Transforming the AIDS Response,” translated in siSwati as “Siletsa tingucuko, Sincoba Tinsayeya tekulwa ne AIDS Eswatini,” challenges the nation to address current challenges in the fight against HIV. She noted that while Eswatini has achieved the global 95-95-95 targets, new HIV infections continue at a rate of 4000 people annually, particularly affecting adolescents and young people.
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