Today, we are all gathered here, beautifully to commemorate our independence from the colonial rulers. Yes! It is a happy day. However, we cannot ignore the dialogue on critical issues that affect us all, ‘’HIV and AIDS.’’

HIV and AIDS are not just health issues; they are also social, economic, and human rights issues. They affect not individuals but also families, communities and societies as a whole.

Despite the progress we’ve made in the fight against HIV and AIDS, there is still much work to be done. For this reason, it is necessary to create HIV and AIDS awareness and the importance of knowing your status at every social gathering. Knowing your HIV status is the first step to taking control of your health and preventing the spread of the virus. Knowing one’s status is also crucial for preventing new infection. When we know our status, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from HIV.

We must promote HIV and AIDS awareness and encourage people to know their status by;

Firstly, creating a safe and supportive environments where people feel comfortable getting tested and seeking care.

Secondly, we need to provide accurate and reliable information about HIV and AIDS, educate ourselves and others about the facts of HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment.

Undoubtedly, we must reduce stigma and discrimination against People Living with HIV and AIDS as it continues to be a major barrier.

Finally, we must empower individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health and to take steps to protect themselves from HIV.

I will end by saying, HIV and AIDS awareness and knowing your status is not only beneficial to individual living with the virus but also critical to preventing the spread of the virus and promoting the health and well-being of individuals and communities at large.

I would love to plead with our noble pastors, imams and traditional leaders (Nananom) to continue educating their members on HIV and AIDS at any given platform. Let us work together to promote a culture of acceptance, compassion, and support for People Living with HIV and AIDS.

Let us not forget that HIV/AIDS is passing! But don’t be scared. Enjoy life!

Take control, love your life and stop HIV/AIDS

Thank you.