HEROLD NEWS - The community of Herold was the focus of George Municipality’s Khomanani Day celebrations, with the theme “Africa Day”, held at the end of October.
Khomanani Day is a national mobilisation campaign focusing on HIV/Aids and its effects. More than 100 people affected and infected with HIV/AIDS turned up at this year’s event.
The non-profit organisation She (Social Health and Empowerment), Bethesda Medical and Relief Services and the Department of Health also took part in the day’s activities and delivered services to the community.
The municipality presented a wellness programme that included motivational speeches, health care professionals and other persons of interest.
Portfolio Councillor for Community Development, Cllr Sean Snyman, encouraged people to rise above their circumstances and to support each other. He said people living with HIV/Aids do not need mere sympathy because that does not help them, but they need support and love to carry them through the tough times.
Cllr Sean Snyman (left) and Willbedine Jordaan of Community Development with other officials and members of the community who received food parcels.
Snyman drew from his own experience, having lost the use of his right arm in an accident. He inspired the crowd to use their talents and turn them into jobs, and also to start food gardens. “Don’t wait for the municipality to bring a food parcel or wait on the government for a grant. Don’t keep looking at your problems, otherwise you will not see the solution,” Snyman said.
He said HIV/Aids is not a death sentence; with the help of medication and support it is a life change. “Sell yourself to yourself in the mirror and the rest of the world will also want to buy you,” was his message.
Hester September, a member of the local community, shared her struggle with the health issues she encountered and how she coped.
Willbedine Jordaan, acting HIV/Aids coordinator, handed 100 food parcels to all the attendees as a symbol of love and support from the municipality.
As part of the day’s activities, HIV testing and counselling was also done and each person that was tested received a small gift.
Cllr Sean Snyman delivering his speech.
Willbedine Jordaan of Community Development (right) hands over a food parcel to Johanna Diedericks.
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