Gqeberha, South Africa, 01 December 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) joined the Eastern Cape Provincial Government to commemorate World Aids Day at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium, in Mdantsane today. This year’s commemoration, led by the Deputy President and Chairperson of the South African National Aids Council (SANAC), H.E Paul Mashatile, the SANAC Civil Society Forum Chairperson, Hon. Solly Nduku, the SANAC Private Sector Forum Chairperson, Hon. Nompumelelo Zikalala, the Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, the Eastern Cape Premier, Hon. Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, and the Executive Mayor, Cllr. Babalwa Lobishe was centered on the theme Equal Rights, Equal Care.
The primary goal of the event was to advocate for equal rights and equitable healthcare access for all, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS. The event sought to empower communities through local awareness campaigns, encourage individuals to prioritise their health by undergoing HIV testing, and promote safer behaviours to prevent HIV transmission.
Deputy President, H.E Paul Mashatile during his keynote address on World AIDS Day, highlighted South Africa’s commitment to achieving an AIDS-free world.
“Our country remains the epicentre of HIV and is among those with the highest TB burden. There are nearly 8 million people living with HIV, and TB remains the leading cause of death, claiming around 56,000 lives a year. As of June 2024, only 79% of people who knew their status were on treatment, and only 93% of people on treatment were virally suppressed.
We need to further increase HIV screening, diagnosis, and treatment initiation while maintaining treatment adherence to keep its viral suppression rates high. I would like to urge all the Premiers to make use of the Provincial Councils on AIDS to mobilise these sectors and others that are active in the provinces to help us find over 1 million people.
Our approaches must be comprehensive, targeted, inclusive, and geo-specific,” said H.E Mashatile.”
The Eastern Cape Premier, Hon. Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, shared the progress the country has made in a fight against HIV/AIDS.
“As we commemorate World AIDS Day, I am proud to announce that the Eastern Cape has achieved a significant 54% decline in AIDS-related deaths. This remarkable progress is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our healthcare workers, community leaders, and all those involved in the response.
We are reminded that our work is far from over. We must continue to work tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare and HIV services. We owe it to ourselves, our communities, and future generations to keep pushing forward towards an AIDS-free world,” said Hon. Mabuyane.
The gathering brought together diverse stakeholders to explore innovative strategies to enhance awareness, prevention, and support initiatives. The event featured a range of activities, including keynote addresses, panel discussions, and exhibitions to educate and empower community members.
Ms. Phumela Hoza, Coega’s SHE Project Manager, highlighted Coega’s participation in the Annual World AIDS Day Commemoration.
“By attending this event, We reaffirmed our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals, including good health and well-being (SDG 3), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), reducing inequalities (SDG 10), and fostering partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).
Coega has made a notable impact as a trusted Infrastructure Implementing Agent of Choice for the Eastern Cape Department of Heat through Coega’s Department of Health Infrastructure Programme to enhance the quality of life for South Africans, “ she said.
This year’s observance aligns with the 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy celebrations. Over the past three decades, South Africa has made significant progress in advancing equal rights, promoting health equity, and ensuring access for everyone.
Coega reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community and the promotion of public health. As a responsible corporate citizen, Coega recognises the significance of addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic and advocating for equal rights and equal care for all individuals.
