Makhado Municipality continues to ramp up its efforts in the ongoing battle against HIV/Aids and tuberculosis. On Wednesday, 20 November 2024, the municipality held its second quarter local council meeting, a key event aimed at reinforcing public awareness and combating the spread of these diseases.

During the meeting, Makhado Municipality Mayor, Her Worship Cllr Dorcus Mboyi, emphasised the importance of proactive health measures, urging residents to take responsibility for their sexual health. “Everyone who is sexually active must use protection to prevent the spread of HIV,” said Mayor Mboyi, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Makhado Aids Council. “People must know their status through testing to avoid complications,” she added, underscoring the importance of regular HIV testing.

Several local and national organisations, which collaborate with the municipality in tackling HIV/Aids and TB, also participated in the meeting. Presentations were made by representatives from New Love Life, the Wits Reproductive and HIV Institute, THINK, and the Department of Health, each highlighting the critical role of education, awareness, and access to healthcare services in addressing these public health challenges.

The meeting marked another significant step in Makhado’s comprehensive strategy to reduce the impact of HIV/Aids and TB, with a strong focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Mayor Mboyi reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to working closely with its partners to ensure that residents have access to the resources and information needed to protect their health and well-being.