By Nangamso Mabindla
29 November 2004

BUFFALO CITY has prepared a number of activities ahead of World Aids Day, 1 December, to highlight its efforts in the relentless fight against the disease.

On Tuesday, 30 November, an HIV/Aids workshop will be held at the Mdantsane Sun, where the City will launch its joint HIV/Aids intersectoral forum.

City officials, representatives of various NGOs and HIV/Aids support groups plan to march down Oxford Street in the East London central business district on Wednesday, 1 December to bring the issue of Aids to the attention of the public.

Earlier this year the City conducted a groundbreaking HIV/Aids prevalence study amongst its 5 000 employees. The aim of the study was to assist the municipality in assessing the percentage of employees infected with the virus and enable it to plan for any eventualities.

It also offered employees the opportunity to know their HIV status.

Shaun Petzer, from the City's Special Programmes Unit (HIV/Aids), says the City wanted to ensure it tackled the disease internally before going to its communities.

"Now that we have had a successful study with our employees," Petzer said, "I believe we can participate fully in this all-important day. We'd like to play an effective role in the fight against the pandemic."

Following the success of the prevalence study, the Special Programmes Unit launched the HIV/Aids intersectoral forum in King Williams Town and East London.

Looking back at the City's participation in last year's World Aids Day Petzer said he was satisfied with its efforts. "Last year's theme, 'Live and let live' aimed to encourage people with the disease to live their lives to the fullest."

The City had invited renowned motivational speaker, Criselda Kananda, to encourage people living with the disease to live a healthy life. Kananda is also a professional counselor and board member of the South African Aids Council.

"She's been living with HIV for the past seven years. We thought she would be able to motivate people in our city," Petzer said.