Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment (GDACE) employees gathered to remember people who have died of HIV and AIDS during the International Candlelight Memorial Day held in Diamond Corner.
This event was organised to educate the employees of the department about issues relating to HIV and AIDS. The Memorial Day is marked every year on 17 May. Commemorations have taken place in the department’s regional offices in Randfontein, Germiston, Johannesburg, Roodeplaat and Suikerbosrand Resorts.
Mr Mngomezulu says that the commemoration aims to remind people about their responsibility in regard to the disease and how to care for those living with it. “We need to remember those who have died of HIV and AIDS related illnesses. Everyone must know his / her status,” he said.
HIV activists such as Johannes Tefo and wife Lina addressed GDACE staff. Johannes tested positive to HIV seven years ago, meanwhile Lina tested negative. These parents of three girls decided to inspire people living with HIV and Aids and their families by speaking about their own experiences.
Lena said that it is important for partners to understand each other very well so that one partner can easily notice if the habits of the other partner change. She added that she is happy that her husband is responding very well to the treatment he is taking.
Johannes urged people to go and check their status so that they make good decisions about their future and to get necessary support if they test positive to HIV and AIDS.
“Go out there and check your status. If you find out that you are positive come out, and other people would be encouraged by your courage. Partners must always practice safe sex immediately they find out that one of them is positive,"he added.
The International Candle Light Memorial Day was observed by all government departments.
Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, Gauteng Provincial Government
22 May 2009
Source: Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gdace.gpg.gov.za)
