Deputy President Paul Mashatile has taken a significant step in the fight against HIV/Aids by signing a memorandum with the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) during the World Aids Day event at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape.
The agreement calls for a transition from the current three-month supply of antiretroviral (ARV) medication to a six-month supply for HIV-positive patients, aimed at easing the logistical burdens faced by those on treatment.
During his address at the commemorative event, Mashatile emphasised the government's commitment to winning the battle against HIV/Aids by 2030.
“As we are here today to commemorate World AIDS Day, we are committed as the government to winning this war. By 2030, we need to claim that we have triumphed. Thank you for coming here, very peacefully. They told us that your march is peaceful. We also see it. We promise that we have heard you. We will take action because we have signed. It is done.
“What you are asking for, the government will do; what you are complaining about, the government will do,” he said.
His comments resonate with many who argue that consistent access to medication is essential to improving the quality of life for those affected.
Mashatile’s remarks come amidst concerns regarding poverty and unemployment among patients, who often face barriers in collecting essential medication.
Many individuals living with HIV have expressed the burdensome reality of having to frequently visit clinics, often sacrificing time that could be spent on work or other vital activities.
“If I am living with HIV and I have to go now and again to the clinic to collect my medication, it means I am taking time off," articulated a concerned activist.
This six-month supply initiative aims to alleviate that burden and potentially increase the number of individuals on ARVs.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, who attended the event, emphasised that this issue transcends regional boundaries, highlighting that the HIV crisis is a global concern.
“It is a social problem. That’s why we talk about teenage pregnancy and why we advocate for consistent safe practices — such as condom use — to protect ourselves.”
This year’s theme, “Take the rights path: My health, my right!”, underscores a collective affirmation of health as a fundamental human right, consistent with global efforts to halt the stigma surrounding HIV
Despite notable advancements in treatment and awareness, this day serves as a stark reminder that HIV continues to affect millions of people globally.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the ongoing need for increased awareness and proactive funding to address the pervasive stigma while urging global leaders to champion health equity.
“This day serves as a reminder for the world to remain steadfast in the commitment to prevent new HIV infections and to provide essential services to all people living with HIV,” the WHO stated.
Among those making significant strides in HIV research is Professor Patience Mthunzi-Kufa, head of the Bio-photonics Research Group at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
Her groundbreaking work focuses on innovative solutions for HIV treatment, utilising laser technologies for drug delivery in HIV-infected cells.
“HIV is such a big problem across the world. I want to be among those who are trying to bring a solution to HIV. I know it’s an ambitious goal, but it might not be impossible,” she reflected.
Her dedication further illustrates a critical intersection of science and public health, showcasing how research can directly contribute to solutions for real-world problems.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za