Merafong City Launches Local AIDS Council to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Response

Karen Scheepers
7 days ago
2 min read

The Merafong City Local Municipality has officially launched its Local AIDS Council, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaboration, accountability, and community mobilisation in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The launch brought together government representatives, civil society organisations, health partners, faith-based groups, and community structures, all united in the commitment to improve health outcomes and ensure that no resident is left behind.

A United Front Against HIV/AIDS

The launch event, held at the Civic Centre Hall, was attended by key municipal leaders, including the MCLM Executive Mayor, Cllr Nozuko Best, and MCCM–CSF Chairperson Mr Bareng Rasego. The programme ran from 09:00 to 16:00 and included presentations, policy discussions, and the formal signing of the Local AIDS Council framework.

Key attendees also included health practitioners, NGO leaders, ward committee representatives, and community activists dedicated to enhancing prevention, treatment, and support systems across Merafong.

Symbolic elements featured prominently throughout the event, including the red ribbon candle lighting ceremony, honouring lives lost to HIV/AIDS and reaffirming the collective commitment to ongoing awareness and support.

What the Local AIDS Council Represents

The establishment of the Local AIDS Council is part of South Africa’s national effort to decentralise and strengthen the HIV response at municipal level.

These councils play a critical coordination role by:

Aligning local programmes with national HIV/AIDS strategies
Enhancing multi-sector collaboration between health, education, social development, civil society, and faith communities
Supporting community-based prevention and treatment initiatives
Improving outreach to vulnerable and high-risk groups
Monitoring progress toward UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets

The council will work closely with stakeholders to expand HIV testing, strengthen adherence support, and improve access to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

South Africa’s HIV Realities: A Brief Context

South Africa continues to carry the world’s largest HIV burden. According to UNAIDS and the South African National Department of Health:

Approximately 7.8 million people were living with HIV in 2024
The national HIV prevalence rate stands at 13.7%
Over 5.8 million South Africans were receiving antiretroviral treatment in 2024
The country is progressing toward the 95-95-95 targets, with significant treatment coverage improvements

Merafong City, like many municipalities, faces challenges including youth infections, treatment interruptions, and limited awareness among hard-to-reach communities. The new Local AIDS Council aims to strengthen coordination so these gaps can be addressed more effectively.

Commitment to Community-Driven Action

The launch concluded with a strong message of unity and collaboration. Stakeholders emphasised the need for shared responsibility in fighting stigma, supporting affected families, and ensuring widespread access to accurate information and healthcare services.

The municipality extended its appreciation to everyone who contributed to organising and attending the event, noting that this coordinated structure will drive impact long after the launch.

This renewed commitment marks a hopeful milestone for Merafong City as the community strengthens its systems, partnerships, and resolve in tackling HIV/AIDS with compassion and determination.

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