Deputy President David Mabuza and Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla are set to address the World Aids Day commemoration in Mangaung, Bloemfontein.

ALSO READ: Free State to host World Aids Day in Mangaung

OFM News previously reported that the National Health spokesperson, Foster Mohale, said estimations suggest that the country records 150 new cases of HIV daily among young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years. This means the country is recording 1 050 new cases weekly in the mentioned age group.

Dr. Fanyane Nhlapho, who volunteers at the Provincial Health Department, tells OFM News that there is a trend among young people to only volunteer for circumcision around the winter season, which is regarded as the peak season for the procedure. 

Nhlapho said the procedure has proven to be successful and beneficial among those who are sexually active. He says the procedure reduces the spread of HIV by 60% among those who have been circumcised. Among other benefits, it reduces the transmission of certain Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STI's), such as siphillis.

"Many people associate male circumcision with the winter season, thinking that the penis heals quicker at that time. However, this procedure can be done throughout the year, irrespective of the season. The wound takes six weeks to heal, irrespective of the season and rather based on how you take care of your wound, and if you are following proper instructions," Nhlapho adds.

Expected dignitaries at the event include Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela and the National Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla. Mabuza will be addressing the gathering in his capacity as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (Sanac). 

The commemoration comes as the country continues to record a worrying number of HIV cases among young people. The event will be commemorated through ‘Equalise and Integrate to End Aids'.

The country will express solidarity with those affected and infected by the pandemic as it prepares for the global community's observance of World Aids Day tomorrow, which aims to raise awareness about HIV/Aids.

Meanwhile, the Bloemfontein-based Mangaung Metro Municipality has announced which streets will be closed, leading to the World Aids Day Commemoration venue in the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium.

The Metro spokesperson, Qondile Khedama, says the Tsekeletsa Street between Moshoeshoe and Mokoloko Street, including Thakalekoala Street – from Moshoeshoe to Mokoloko Street - will be closed to allow for smooth traffic flow to the stadium.

This is in anticipation of the high number of participants expected to be in attendance. The event will be commemorated with the theme "Equalise and Integrate to End Aids".

ALSO READ: Streets closed for World Aids Day in Mangaung

These streets will temporarily be closed from 06:00 until the end of the event at around 13:00 on Thursday.

OFM News