Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 17
Nagaland along with the rest of the world today observed the 26th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial here at the Kohima Local Ground under the theme “Together, we are the solution.” Commissioner and Secretary for Health & Family Welfare Menukhol John, DNP+ President Loon Gangte and NNP+ President Chungti spoke on the occasion. A “Declaration of solidarity” created by the International Advisory Board of the Candlelight Memorial programme and Global Health Council, was announced at the function. The declaration stated that AIDS is one of the world’s greatest challenges. Over the last quarter century, the disease has impacted communities, families, economies, and millions of lives. And yet, communities worldwide were hopeful that a solution can be found. The theme for the 26th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial “Together, We are the solution” represents the challenges that remain and our unwavering belief that a solution is possible. The declaration stated that the role of civil society is critical to ending HIV and AIDS, “but we cannot work alone and hope is not enough.” “We need action and communities and government must work together.” It also stated: “We declare our solidarity in the response to AIDS and recommit ourselves to the cause. We call on global leaders to hear our voices, honour pledges to give resources for HIV and AIDS, and increase access to prevention, treatment and care.”
It also called on businesses to invest in their communities and also asked institutions of faith to be more inclusive. Further, it called on the media to report the truth about HIV and AIDS, “and help us share stories about what works.” Policy must be equitable and based on evidence, the declaration said while adding that treatment must be balanced with prevention. Human rights, particularly of children, must be upheld and education must be a priority. The link between AIDS and TB, Malaria and other conditions should be promptly addressed with appropriate actions and resources, and the issue of AIDS must be addressed as part of a broader problem of poverty and development, gender inequity and sexuality, and health system reform.
“We must move beyond fear and ignorance, and embrace people living with HIV and AIDS by replacing stigma and discrimination with understanding and support. All of us can be a part of the solution. Learn about AIDS. Get tested. Become an advocate. Join a club or volunteer,” the declaration stated. Also stating that as the people gather around the world on May 17 to remember those we have lost, it stated that “We stand committed to finding a solution by working together to end HIV and AIDS.”
Since 1983, the pandemic has claimed more than 25 million lives, with about 33 million now living with HIV and AIDS. As AIDS continues to ravage communities around the world, the Candlelight service has become a way for communities to take action by publicly mourning loved ones lost to AIDS, and by strengthening local and national commitments to fight the pandemic. The main objectives of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is to honour the memory of those lost to AIDS, to show support for those living with HIV and AIDS, to raise community awareness and decrease stigma/discrimination related to HIV/AIDS and to mobilize community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The official figure of AIDS related death in Nagaland stands at 460 and a total number of 7690 HIV+ve people are living with the virus till date. The service was followed by gospel concert.
