As individuals and institutions pledge to stop at nothing to keep the promise of eliminating AIDS, stigma and ignorance that surrounds the issue of HIV, and of supporting the infected and affected, the need to join hands is ever more obvious.
HOPE
worldwide Kenya’s program outlet in Makindu town in Kibwezi District, known as Makindu Centre of HOPE, partnered with numerous stakeholders to commemorate World AIDS Day on 1 December 2007 in three different towns.
In Makindu town HWWK was a key partner in the official commemoration of the district, providing VCT and medical treatment at the venue of the public rally that was held, spearheading mobilization for the event, and facilitating several presentations and speeches to highlight the theme, “Stop AIDS: Keep The Promise.” Other partners at the event were the District Commissioner, the District Medical Officer of Health and various NGO’s.
In various speeches, Raphael of Act
Now VCt and Youth Centre said, "Let us work together so as to build on the gains that we have made." A representative from Maendeleo Ya Wanawake women's organization spoke: "I encourage women to join and form groups through which they can get funded." Lucia from a Makindu-based support group of People Living With
HIV/AIDS said, "Accepting your status helps you to live strong." Speaking on behalf of the District commissioner, Makindu District Officer Angela Wanyama (right) challenged the audience, "We must demonstrate leadership, and leadership starts with you and me." It starts with getting to know your status, Rayola Osanya-Nyynéque of HWWK put to the crowd.
In Mtito Andei, HWWK linked up with the Kilaguni Serena Lodge and Ministry of Health to provide food, clothes and games for orphans, VCT services and dissemination of reproductive health and HIV information. Dancing competition, football and tug-of-war were just a few of the activities that brought a smile on the occasion of what is certainly a somber topic.
HWWK was also in Kathonzweni town with refreshments and HIV and AIDS-related information. There, a church hosted an event centred around Wendo OVC care group, and attended by the Minister of Lands from the government.
In the evening, staff, partners and other community members converged at the Makindu Centre of HOPE for a hearty meal and bonding flavoured with poems, a song and dance by various individuals.
The Kibwezi District Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ruth Muthama (left), acknowledged, HWWK’s role. She shared about the situation in Kibwezi District, promising, "Plans are underway for the expansion of medical services in the district to make necessary drugs and services more accessible." A community member in makindu declared, “This is a meaningful day to celebrate and to get to know your status.” Another, who is HIV-positive enthused, “We have met together with our colleagues who are of the same status.”
Georgeanne Rayola of HWWK shared, “For the orphans to be cared for and supported it needs us all to work together to help.” Echoing this, Augustin from Kilaguni Serena said, “It is not just the role of VCT fight HIV but it is the role of every one of us.”
Miss Mtito Andei 2007 shared, “I myself am an orphan and I am moved by this event. Thank you so much.” An 11-year-old orphan, Mutie, declared, “This is the best day that I’ve ever had.”
If we are to stop AIDS then our efforts must be relentless. We cannot afford to stop giving our best and giving our all. We each must make a personal promise regarding this very public pandemic, and in concert with others will we keep the promise.
HOME page
