Sunday, 1 December 2024

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) stands in solidarity with the global community as we commemorate World AIDS Day. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the immense battles fought since the genesis of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the lives lost, and the monumental progress achieved. However, it also highlights the urgent need to confront the persistent challenges that hinder our collective journey toward an HIV-free future.

Under this year’s theme, “Equal Rights, Equal Care,” we emphasise the critical need for equitable access to healthcare, particularly in a nation like South Africa, which remains an epicentre of the epidemic. South Africa has made significant strides, with new infections declining from over 500,000 per year in the year 2000, to approximately 149,000 in 2023. This progress is a testament to the resilience of our people and the efforts of healthcare workers, activists, and civil society.

Yet, the fight is far from over. Around 7.8 million South Africans are living with HIV, and alarmingly, one in four is not on treatment. This glaring gap in treatment coverage, with only 75% of those infected receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), highlights systemic failures in our healthcare system.

Stigma remains one of the greatest barriers to combating HIV/AIDS. Fear of discrimination and societal judgment prevents many from getting tested or starting treatment. This stigma is not just a social issue—it is a matter of life and death. People living with HIV must be empowered to take charge of their health without fear.

The EFF emphasises the urgent need for an intense, nationwide campaign to destigmatise HIV. By normalising discussions around HIV, we can encourage more people to know their status, which is crucial for reducing new infections. When individuals are empowered with knowledge about their health, they are more likely to make informed decisions about safe sex and seek timely treatment.

With proper healthcare, treatment, and a healthy lifestyle, HIV is no longer an immediate death sentence. People living with HIV can, and do, lead long, fulfilling lives. We must, therefore, challenge outdated perceptions and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, fostering a culture of empathy, support, and education. Destigmatising HIV is not just a social necessity; it is a public health imperative that will save lives.

The stark gender disparities in infection rates also demand urgent attention. In 2023, approximately 91,000 new infections were recorded among women aged 15 and older, compared to 50,000 in men. This highlights the intersection of gender inequality, poverty, and the HIV epidemic. Women, particularly young women, continue to be disproportionately affected due to socio-economic vulnerabilities, gender-based violence, and limited access to healthcare services. Addressing these inequalities is not optional— it is imperative for the eradication of HIV/AIDS.

The EFF calls on all South Africans to get tested regularly. Testing is the gateway to prevention, treatment, and support. Clinics must be adequately resourced to provide accessible and confidential testing services. The government must ensure the widespread availability of free condoms, HIV self-testing kits, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at higher risk.

Finally, we must never forget the millions of lives lost due to the ANC government’s failures in responding to the HIV/AIDS crisis. The slow response to the epidemic, denialism, and the lack of access to treatment under ANC leadership condemned countless South Africans to unnecessary suffering and death. Their neglect and inaction exacerbated the epidemic, particularly among the poor and marginalised.

This is why we will not rest until every person, regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, or geography, has equal access to prevention, treatment, and care. We cannot rest until stigma is eradicated, until no one is forced to suffer in silence, and until our public healthcare system is fully equipped to serve the people.