30 August 2006
The Ministry of Health welcomes the statement by a Sowetan newspaper columnist who is living with HIV, Lucky Mazibuko where he warns that the narrow approach of blaming government for the challenge of HIV and AIDS in South Africa is dangerous.
Writing in today's edition of the Sowetan, Mazibuko said: "HIV has been turned into a government versus the people battle. This narrow focus is dangerous and has contributed largely to the status quo because it seems to suggest that one can get infected and then the government will have to deal with the consequences."
Mazibuko argues that it is imperative to impress upon each and every person that HIV begins with the individual and he emphasises the need for prevention.
On treatment, Mazubuko writes: "Treatment is not restricted to antiretroviral treatment, care and support.
"These are crucial and must be accessible to all people living with HIV, but not at the expense of more infections in the knowledge that I can demand, toyi-toyi and embarrass the powers-that-be."
The sentiments expressed by Mazibuko reflect the views of the many people living with HIV and AIDS who do not support confrontation but would like to strengthen partnerships with their own government in the response to HIV and AIDS.
This partnership should be expressed through collaboration between government and civil society organisations in the provision of comprehensive HIV and AIDS prevention, care and treatment services on the ground.
Toyi-toying and disobedience against a democratically elected government will not add any value to the national efforts to respond to the challenge of HIV and AIDS in South Africa.
Sibani Mngadi
Spokesperson for the Minister of Health
0827720161