In the lead-up to World AIDS Day, members of the abaThembu Royal Family in OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape, led by His Majesty King Zwelibanzi Dalindyebo, decided to throw their weight behind a campaign that emphasises the importance of HIV treatment adherence and retention in care.
Treatment adherence was just one of the challenges addressed at the Eastern Cape’s AIDS Day commemoration, which was held at the North End Stadium in Matatiele on Friday, 01 December. The Royal Family encouraged members of all communities to attend, and they will continue to facilitate community engagement by hosting advocacy workshops and seminars, meetings with traditional leaders within the Kingdom, and cultural events to engage directly with affected individuals and provide support and education.
In addition, the King Dalimvula Matanzima Foundation (KDMF) has agreed to partner with TB HIV Care to address the intertwined challenges of tuberculosis and HIV in the Eastern Cape – a cause that resonates with KDMF’s commitment to community upliftment.
Both royal families recognise the pivotal role they can play, and look forward to leveraging their networks, resources, voice and influence to bring about positive change – and transform the health and wellbeing of their people.
Many thanks to Siphamandla Mabesi, TB HIV Care Communications Coordinator, who is driving this initiative and working hard to build strong relationships with key stakeholders in the Eastern Cape.
