Executive Mayor Freda Nkondo, joined by Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rambuda, officially launched the R1.1-million Close the Gap Campaign and World AIDS Day commemoration.
"We are here to ensure that our people's health is taken care of. Your health is very important. Let us not leave anyone behind, let's stand together in the fight against HIV and AIDS," said Nkondo.
She said the Vhembe District Municipality had made significant progress in public health, but the campaign now aimed to identify and support the 41,956 people living with HIV who knew their status but were not yet on treatment. Encouraging them to begin treatment would help prevent further transmission and improve health outcomes.
Cheka Mpilo services were offered during the launch, including screening for non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases such as HIV, STIs, TB and malaria, as well as ophthalmic services. Nkondo also checked her blood pressure and urged community members to undergo regular medical check-ups and screenings, particularly encouraging women to do Pap smears to help prevent cervical cancer. She further called on parents to support their children and help discourage suicidal thoughts.
While addressing the crowd, Nkondo invited people from nearby streets to join the Cheka Mpilo programme and make use of the health services brought directly to them. She appealed to the public to stop discriminating against people living with HIV, emphasising that those getting treatment deserved support and understanding.
"We are here to support everyone undergoing treatment for any illness. Please, never stop taking your medication. Make sure to visit your nearest clinic to get tested and know your status," she said.
Services were provided at Thavhani Mall, Thohoyandou Bus Rank, Mvusuludzo Taxi Rank, Venda Plaza Taxi Rank and Thulamela Taxi Rank, where large numbers of community members accessed free screenings and health information.