South Africa Renews Vow to End AIDS as Deputy President Mashatile Leads Commemoration

Mpho Dube
5 days ago
2 min read

Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

Limpopo Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

Deputy President Paul Mashatile stole the show at the World AIDS Day commemoration in Limpopo, delivering a powerful keynote address that highlighted South Africa's progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

The event, officiated by Limpopo Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, brought together government leaders, traditional authorities, and community members to renew their commitment to ending AIDS.

Mashatile emphasized that South Africa has surpassed the first and third UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with current national outcomes recorded at 96-80-97. However, he noted that challenges remain in initiating and retaining diagnosed individuals on treatment, with global figures standing at 95-85-92.

The Deputy President's address was a call to action, urging South Africans to work together to close the gaps in prevention and treatment. He highlighted the success of the "Close the Gap" Treatment Acceleration Campaign, which aims to reach 1.1 million individuals who have fallen out of treatment.

Mashatile also announced the introduction of a groundbreaking long-acting prevention technology, Lenacapavir, which provides 100% protection for up to six months with just one injection. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention in South Africa.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Premier of Limpopo Dr Phophi Ramathuba, and Executive Mayor of Sekhukhune District Municipality, Her Worship Mina Bahula.

Premier Ramathuba reaffirmed the province's commitment to strengthening prevention, testing, treatment, and adherence programmes to achieve an AIDS-free generation.

Mashatile's leadership and vision for a South Africa free from AIDS were evident in his address, which was met with applause and enthusiasm from the crowd. As the country marks World AIDS Day, Mashatile's message of hope and determination serves as a reminder that together, we can end AIDS.