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NZP+ Livingstone Board Chairperson Calls for Community-Led Efforts on World AIDS


 In a powerful speech delivered on behalf of the Livingstone Network of Zambian People Living with HIV/AIDS (NZP+), Mr. Kambole Kambangu, the Board Chairperson, marked World AIDS Day by emphasizing the crucial role of communities in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.

Addressing the audience, including the Guest of Honor, heads of various departments, partners, stakeholders, and invited guests, Kambangu expressed his rare privilege and honor to deliver a speech on this significant occasion. He highlighted the importance of coming together on December 1st each year to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, show support for those living with the disease, and remember those who have lost their lives to it.

The theme for this year's World AIDS Day, "Let Communities Lead," was a focal point in Kambangu's address. He stressed the theme's aim to make community members less passive in decision-making, increase their participation, and hold authorities accountable. The emphasis was on scaling up programs needed by communities to end AIDS by removing barriers limiting access to services and creating an empowering environment.

Kambangu passionately advocated for community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS, asserting that it is the key to achieving desired results. While acknowledging significant progress in the fight, he reminded the audience that HIV/AIDS remains a critical health issue requiring continuous effort and funding. He urged for a collective effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, in line with this year's theme of letting communities lead.

"The path to ending AIDS runs through communities," Kambangu declared. He emphasized the importance of placing community leadership at the center of HIV plans, programs, budgets, and monitoring efforts. Removing barriers to community leadership and ensuring space for local civil society groups were highlighted as essential steps in winning the battle against AIDS.

Funding emerged as a critical need, with Kambangu stressing the importance of scaled-up funding for local programs led by people living with HIV and prevention initiatives led by communities. He echoed the principle, "Nothing about us without us," asserting that with adequate support, AIDS is beatable.

As the world remembers the millions of lives lost to HIV over the past 40 years, Kambangu celebrated the struggles and resilience of those alive today due to the significant progress made globally against the epidemic. Reflecting on the theme, he urged everyone to recognize their role in the fight against HIV/AIDS, emphasizing that every individual can make a difference.

In conclusion, Kambangu thanked everyone for commemorating World AIDS Day, emphasizing the need to work together to ensure access to care and support for every person living with HIV. He urged collective efforts to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic once and for all, making a heartfelt plea for a healthier and more fulfilling life for those affected.

The speech concluded with a heartfelt thank you to everyone for coming together on this important occasion, marking World AIDS Day 2023.

 

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