The UCKG, Stop Suffering Help Centre and New Start, a non-governmental organisation united in a large-scale campaign to spread the anti-HIV/aids message throughout the inner city area of Johannesburg in March. They were joined by all the UCKG’s groups including the Youth Group, Evangelism Group, the Big 5 and the Hospital Group.
Hundreds of volunteers gave of their time, as they talked to people about adopting a positive attitude and handed out free condoms in places such as Gandhi square, Joubert Park, at taxi ranks and throughout the CBD. Their aim was to increase awareness of the HIV/Aids pandemic.
Even though some people weren’t too concerned about or interested in taking condoms, the overall attitude was positive. Church members encouraged protection since the church has no control over sexual behaviour. New Start offered free voluntary HIV testing and counselling. Oscar Bengani a volunteer from New Starts said, “It’s about time that people know their status. They should be encouraged through awareness programmes. The spread of HIV is caused by a lack of understanding and education on HIV/Aids.
“ Buitumelo Memela was among the people who were given free condoms on the day and this is what she had to say: “I’m not even ashamed to take these condoms because prevention is far better than cure. Shame and denial is what has killed many people, as most people are afraid to face reality. Now that South Africa is drawing closer to one of the biggest events ever held on African soil, the 2010 World Cup, such campaigns need to be conducted more often and be intensified.”
By Nikiwe Titus