Mapaballo Borotho
- Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya says HIV remains a major public health challenge in the city.
- She highlighted stigma, poor adherence to treatment and social pressures facing young women as key concerns.
- The City is expanding PrEP access and youth-friendly services to strengthen HIV prevention and care.
The Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Nasiphi Moya, says HIV/AIDS is still a major public health challenge across Pretoria, despite ongoing efforts to fight it.
Moya was speaking at the City’s World AIDS Day Commemoration in Olievenhoutbosch on Friday. This year’s theme is “Renewed Efforts and Sustainable Commitments to End AIDS”.
“Ladies and gentlemen, South Africa has travelled a long and difficult journey with HIV and AIDS.
We cannot forget the time when fear overwhelmed families, when treatment was limited and when many suffered in silence.
We have come a long way, but we have not yet reached the end of this road,” said Moya.
She said it is absolutely concerning that some people still do not know their status and that some who do are not consistent with their medication.
“Stigma continues to silence people who need help and discourage them from seeking care.
Young women and adolescent girls remain particularly vulnerable, and the pressures of unemployment, poverty, substance abuse and gender-based violence deepen this vulnerability.
“These challenges are felt strongly in communities like Olievenhoutbosch, where many young people are trying to build their lives while facing difficult social and economic conditions.”
Moya said these are some of the realities the City must confront if it is to end HIV in our lifetime.
Furthermore, the City of Tshwane has expanded the availability of PrEP so that people who are at higher risk can better protect themselves.
“We are improving youth-friendly services so that young people feel respected and safe when they seek healthcare.
No young person should ever feel judged for choosing to take care of their health.”
Moya reminded residents that with treatment, HIV is manageable and one can live a long, healthy and productive life.
South Africa will officially commemorate World AIDS Day on Monday, 01 December 2025.
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