Resource person addresses the gathering during the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2026 at Aboi Town Baptist Church in Mon.
Mon, May 18 (MExN): The District Integrated Strategy for HIV & AIDS (DISHA), Mon, in collaboration with Aboi Town Baptist Church Youth Ministry, TI NNP+ Aboi and the Red Ribbon Club (RRC) of Government Polytechnic Aboi, observed the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2026 at Aboi Town Baptist Church under the theme “Light the Legacy: Remember. Advance. Act.”
The programme was organised with support from the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
Speaking on the significance of the occasion, Longyim Tzudir, District Programme Officer of DISHA Mon, said the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is observed worldwide every third Sunday of May to honour those who lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and to renew commitment towards supporting people living with HIV.
Referring to this year’s theme, he said it calls upon people to remember the pioneers and lives lost, advance the progress achieved in HIV treatment and human rights, and act collectively to end stigma and achieve the global goal of ending the epidemic by 2030.
Addressing the gathering, M Khenpa, Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC), Aboi, said the HIV prevalence rate remains high and stressed the need for awareness and proper knowledge about the disease.
He remarked that one of the major challenges faced by society is the hesitation and shame associated with openly discussing HIV & AIDS in churches, schools, families and society at large.
He encouraged participants not to shy away from talking about HIV & AIDS and urged them to share the knowledge gained from the programme with their families and communities through open discussions.
Khenpa also appreciated Aboi Town Baptist Church for allowing the programme to be conducted within the church premises, describing it as a significant step towards creating awareness, breaking stigma and promoting community support for people affected by HIV & AIDS.
“As we participate in this Candlelight Memorial, let us reflect, renew our commitment, and remember those who lost their lives, including medical personnel and NGO workers who dedicated themselves to serving affected individuals. Let us honour them today by lighting the candles,” he said.
He further urged the public to spread awareness, remove stigma and work together to prevent the spread of the disease.
During the candlelight vigil, E Shamo K and friends presented the song “Go Light the World”, while a special prayer was pronounced by Bonom SL Konyak, Associate Pastor Youth of Aboi Town Baptist Church.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Wanmei, who chaired the memorial service.
