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The Sandfontein community came together in an inspiring show of unity and health awareness during the Tshela ka Itekanelo: Closing the 1.1 Million HIV Treatment Gap Campaign, hosted by the Department of Health – Moses Kotane Sub-District, Moses Kotane Hospital, and the Aurum Institute, in partnership with the Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Jacob Chisefe Foundation, Right to Care, Assupol, BPDM Fire, and the SAPS.
The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the HIV treatment gap and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their health through testing, treatment, and healthy living.
The day began with an energetic fun walk and aerobics session, followed by motivational talks centered on wellness, fitness, and HIV prevention.
Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Mmolawa, CEO of Moses Kotane Hospital, shared alarming statistics, revealing that 28,225 individuals in the Bojanala region who have tested positive for HIV are still not on treatment. She used the opportunity to educate the public about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), stressing that stigma remains a greater threat than the virus itself.
Ward 10 Councillor Sekoboane thanked the community for their active participation, noting that such collaborative efforts are vital in building a healthier society.
Speaking on behalf of the Moses Kotane Local Municipality, MMC Councillor Bushy Manganye encouraged residents to take proactive steps towards their wellbeing.
“We cannot allow stigma, peer pressure, and ignorance to continue costing lives. Knowing your status is power,” he said.
Representing traditional leadership, Kgosana Machaka reaffirmed the commitment of traditional authorities to support community health initiatives, highlighting that health campaigns like Tshela ka Itekanelo strengthen community resilience and awareness.
The campaign concluded with health screenings and wellness services offered to community members, marking another step forward in the fight against HIV and the effort to close the treatment gap in the North West Province.
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