Takavinya Yolanda Munyengwa
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The work to end AIDS by 2030 goes beyond international conferences as there is more work to be done which needs total dedication of everyone concerned, Disability Youth Advocate, Takavinya Yolanda Munyengwa has revealed.
Munyengwa was speaking at the recent International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) which was held at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare.
The theme for ICASA 2023 was “AIDS IS NOT OVER: Address inequalities, accelerate inclusion and innovation.”
“Let us be reminded that our work extends beyond these conference walls.
“It extends to clinics, health facilities, community spaces and countries across the globe.
“We must engage policymakers, healthcare providers, researchers, and civil society organizations in our pursuit to end AIDS by 2030.
“By uniting our voices and resources, we can drive meaningful change and create an inclusive environment that supports, diversity of young women and girls, people with disabilities, women, key populations and all those affected by this devastating disease.
“As we gather here today, let us renew our commitment to the cause. Let us revolutionize prevention strategies, enhance access to treatment, and eliminate the stigma and discrimination and criminalization associated with HIV/AIDS,” she said.
Munyengwa further revealed that all inequalities had to be addressed because time is running out as she also reiterated that the journey towards ending AIDS by 2030 required working together being resilient.
“Let us address inequalities, knowing that time is of the essence and let us accelerate inclusion and innovation recognizing that our ability to adapt and overcome will redefine our success in the face of future challenges.
“Together, we have the power to transform lives, communities, and nations.
“Let us leave this conference not only inspired but equipped with the tools, knowledge, and renewed determination to create a world free from stigma, discrimination, criminalization because this is how we will END AIDS by 2023.”
She added, “by accelerating progress, we can ensure that the goals we have set are achieved swiftly and effectively.
“We must move forward with a sense of urgency, leaving no one behind, and providing access to life-saving treatments and prevention methods to all those in need.
“Building resilience is equally important as we face a rapidly changing landscape in the field of HIV/AIDS. We must anticipate and adapt to the evolving challenges that arise. Our resilience lies in our ability to learn from past experiences, embrace new technologies, and empower communities affected by HIV/AIDS.
“By building resilience, we can withstand any obstacles that come our way and guarantee the sustainability of our efforts for generations to come.”
Munyengwa further revealed that ICASA 2023 serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and introspection, hence delegates had to seize the opportunity to share insights, foster partnerships, and strengthen our resolve to fight against HIV/AIDS.
“Together, we can amplify our impact and ensure that progress is not hindered by any barriers, whether they are social, economic, or cultural.
“The theme for this conference resonates deeply with the current situation for PLHIV.
“It highlights the urgent need to not only make progress in combating HIV/AIDS but also emphasizes the importance of addressing inequalities and accelerate the inclusion of people left behind such as key populations, young people and children to close the gap and end AIDS by 2023.
“We find ourselves at a crucial juncture where our collective efforts are the key to shaping a brighter future,” she added.
