guests light up candles during the Candlelight Memorial at Vengere Community Hall in Rusape
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The Candlelight Memorial, organised by the Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV (ZNNP+), is an event that honours the lives lost to AIDS over the years.
Held the night before World AIDS Day commemorations, it is a moment of sorrow for some, while others see it as a celebration.
According to the Global Network of People Living with HIV, “the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is one of the oldest and largest grassroots mobilization campaigns for HIV awareness in the world.
“Its purpose is to raise social consciousness about HIV and AIDS.”
On November 30, 2024, several guests attended the Candlelight Memorial at Vengere Community Hall in Rusape.
They took time to reflect on their lives and those dear to them who died as a result of the disease.
After the official speeches, guests lit candles and wrote names of loved ones lost while singing songs of hope.
One such song, “Nhai Mwari tiitirei nyasha,” is a cry to God to save his people.
The song was sung passionately, moving some guests to tears.
In the spirit of celebration, the guests also sang “Tawanirwa nyasha,” dancing and appreciating the gains Zimbabwe has made in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Evelyn Chamisa, a mother living with HIV for 32 years, shared her story with this reporter.
“I lost my husband due to HIV 28 years ago, but I celebrate the life I have. Living with the disease for 32 years is no joke,” she said.
“I’m a happy granny, and I’m grateful for the services I receive, including access to treatment. We went through a lot, but we appreciate what has been done in this fight.”
Chamisa added: “I’m happy that the graves to be have changed to vasikana vakuglower through treatment.
“I’m happy with the available treatment; I’m not crying for those who died, but for us who are living and seeing an improved quality of life.” Chamisa, who weighs 95kg now, compared to 35kg previously, credits her recovery to the treatment she has received over the years.
a woman sheds tears as she sings at the Candlelight Memorial at Vengere Community Hall in Rusape
Ruth Mlambo echoed similar sentiments, saying the Candlelight Memorial is a significant day to remember loved ones who died as a result of HIV and AIDS.
“Today, we remember them and light these candles for the memories we share.”
Irene Musarapasi revealed that the day is important as it helps uplift their spirits and remember that there is hope.
“This day encourages us to remain resolute in the fight against HIV and to encourage everyone living with HIV to maintain strict adherence to ARVs.”
Estella Mupfute paid tribute to organisations involved in HIV programmes, saying they have given people hope to believe they can live longer.
