World AIDS Day 2025 Commemorated in Nieu-Bethesda

Constable Leonard from SAPS led the programme as Programme Director, ensuring a smooth flow of activities and engagements throughout the event.

 

DBNLM Mayor, Cllr Safers, delivered the official welcome, emphasising the significance of continued awareness and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS. “Let us keep at the forefront the importance of awareness, testing and support of those affected by HIV/AIDS. Every life is valuable, every voice deserves to be heard. Thank you for choosing to be part of the solution as you attend today’s meeting,” he said.

SBDM Portfolio Councilor for Special Programmes, Cllr Rune, outlined the purpose of the day, reminding attendees that World AIDS Day is both a moment of remembrance and a call to action for communities to work collectively in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

 

Ms Vuthu from the local Department of Social Development highlighted the psychosocial services offered to individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS, including counselling and ongoing support. Her message stressed that no family should face the challenges of HIV/AIDS alone.

 

Representing the Graaff-Reinet Victim Support Centre, Ms Gloria Jaftha explained the services available to survivors of trauma, violence and abuse. She urged both women and men to act responsibly during the festive season, noting that reckless behaviour often leads to regrettable consequences.

SAPS addressed the troubling rise in assault and GBV cases in the small town, particularly incidents linked to alcohol abuse. Constable Leon Boucher noted that the levels of assault in Nieu-Bethesda remain a serious concern and called on community members to work with SAPS to curb the trend.

 

Sister Macpherson from the Department of Health delivered a powerful message about treatment adherence. She expressed concern over the growing number of clients defaulting on their medication. She reminded the community that decades ago many people died due to lack of treatment, yet today—despite free treatment being available—many still default. She stressed the importance of knowing one’s status and encouraged residents to take advantage of the DoH’s current campaign, which focuses on HIV testing, awareness and tracing defaulters to help them resume their treatment.

A symbolic candle-lighting ceremony closed the event, with each attendee lighting a candle to honour those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to reaffirm the shared responsibility of fighting the epidemic. The message was clear: the fight against HIV/AIDS is not the duty of the Department of Health alone—every individual has a role to play.

 

The day ended on a high note with the handover of a netball kit to the Nieu-Bethesda local team, with Cllr Smith officially closing the event.

 

Today’s commemoration served as a reminder of both progress and ongoing challenges—but most importantly, it reinforced the power of unity, awareness and community action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.