Deputy President Paul Mashatile called for collaborative efforts to combat HIV during World AIDS Day commemorations in Limpopo. Speaking at Ga-Masemola Stadium, he emphasized urgent action and long-term investment amid funding challenges. Stakeholders highlighted South Africa's resilience despite global setbacks.
World AIDS Day was marked at Ga-Masemola Stadium in the Sekhukhune district of Limpopo, where Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a message focused on strengthening HIV prevention and treatment strategies. He stressed the need for sustained investment in campaigns, particularly as funding cuts threaten progress. Mashatile urged various stakeholders to unite in their efforts, warning against delays similar to those in the early antiretroviral rollout.
"We cannot repeat the mistakes of the early ARV era, where lifesaving tools reached our shores too slowly," Mashatile said. "This time, we move with urgency, with foresight and with unity. Lenacapavir is not just a drug; it is a symbol of what becomes possible when science, political will, amid community demand meet."
A UN-AIDS representative, Eva Kiwango, addressed the funding shortfall exacerbated by abrupt reductions this year, which have impacted prevention and treatment initiatives. The National Health Department has sought additional funds from the National Treasury to bridge the gap. Kiwango praised South Africa's leadership: "South Africa stands at the centre of all these realities. Yes, it has the highest burden of HIV, yet South Africa continues in also leading with courage and innovation. During this tumultuous year, South Africa has refused to let distractions halt progress."
Commemorations extended to other provinces. In the Eastern Cape, events in KwaZakhele, Gqeberha, featured Provincial Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa encouraging community-led prevention, testing, and treatment. In the Western Cape, officials targeted re-engagement of over 100,000 people who discontinued HIV or TB treatment, with Minister Mireille Wenger stressing non-judgmental care. Mpumalanga reported progress in treatment targets, with MEC Sasekani Manzini noting advances in status awareness and viral suppression, while initiatives like the Aurum Institute's pop-in clinics aimed to reach more men.