‘Let’s keep the light on HIV’

Nagaland joined the rest of the world by observing the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service here at NMA Cradle Ridge, Seithogei, Kohima. The event was held under the aegis of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) along with the Nagaland Network of Positive People (NNP+) with the theme “Let’s keep the light on HIV.” A minute of silence was observed followed by lighting of candles to mark the candlelight memorial service.

Speaking on the occasion, Abei-ü Meru, President of the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) urged policy makers to show their leadership in the execution of the global fund to support PLHAS and their care givers in consonance with this year’s theme and to ensure that HIV/AIDS is sustained on the agenda. Meru said this year’s theme speaks to the urgent need to ensure that HIV/AIDS remain high on domestic and international agenda.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is an opportunity for all to remember those lost to AIDS since the start of the epidemic and to look forward to a future world with universal access to HIV treatment and one that is free of HIV related sigma and discrimination and giving hope to a new generation, she said.

Stating that the issue of HIV/AIDS remains a challenging reality, she asserted that the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is more than just a memorial. It rather serves as a community mobilization campaign to raise consciousness about HIV/AIDS.

With 33 million people living with HIV today, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as an important intervention for global solidarity, breaking down barriers of stigma and discrimination.

The candlelight memorial is about recognizing those who have campaigned for the right of people living with HIV, as well as remember those who have fallen along the way, she added.

“This is an important moment for us and Naga Mothers’ Association extends unwavering support to every movement and programme in combating the issue of HIV/AIDS as we uphold human life in its full glory,” Meru said.

She also stated that over the years, treatments for HIV/AIDS have advanced significantly but that there are still many people living with HIV/AIDS and who need care and support. “HIV/AIDS has hit almost every family. If you are not infected then you are affected. Therefore, the support and care for people living with HIV has become everyone’s responsibility,” the NMA President maintained.

Naomi Semy, President of NNP+ informed that there are 4692 members under NNP+ and that 310 members lost their lives. She called upon each and every individual to come forward and unite in bringing about Zero discrimination, Zero new HIV infection and Zero AIDS related deaths.

Opang Ozukum, Mr International India 2012 and Director of OJ Modeling, Grooming & Training Agency shared a solidarity message. He challenged every individual to fight against stigma and indifference.

Earlier, Arenla Susan, President/Designer for Nagas Next Top Model presented a special number. Another special number was presented by the children of NMA Cradle Ridge.