Mzuzu City Residents Rally for Enhanced HIV Prevention on World AIDS Day
The event, held under the theme "Let Community Lead in the Fight Against HIV and AIDS," highlighted the crucial role of grassroots engagement in combating the pandemic.
MZUZU, Malawi— Hundreds gathered at Kavibale Primary School Ground on Friday to mark World AIDS Day, calling for increased efforts to combat the pandemic, writes Lumbani Kaunda.
George Zulu, Member of Parliament for Lilongwe City West, representing Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, urged communities to devise more effective HIV prevention strategies.
He stressed the importance of community involvement in raising awareness and soliciting input on what measures should be promoted or discouraged to achieve zero new HIV infections by 2030.
Zulu emphasized the need to avoid stigma and discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS and warned against practices that could facilitate new infections.
Dr. Naomi Mulwafu, Director of Health and Social Services for Mzimba North, advocated for community-driven initiatives in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
She stressed the importance of utilizing preventive measures such as abstinence, faithfulness, and condom use.
Additionally, she urged those living with HIV to remain committed to antiretroviral therapy for optimal health outcomes.
The event, held under the theme "Let Community Lead in the Fight Against HIV and AIDS," highlighted the crucial role of grassroots engagement in combating the pandemic.
World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1st, serves as a global reminder of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS and the need for collective action to eradicate the disease.