December 1st was declared World Aids Day 23 years ago. The Minority Front and the Phoenix Child and Family Welfare Society converged at the Caneside Clinic to raise greater awareness on the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Minority Front Councillor Patrick Pillay said that it is very important that we as a society unite in the fight against Aids. Every person is affected if not directly but indirectly. We must provide a moral support system for our children to ensure that the message of the harmful effects of the HIV/ AIDS is understood.

He further said that the Caneside Clinic led by the Manager Mr Lesley Mshali has a dedicated doctor every Friday to provide treatment and do free AIDS testing. The community is encouraged to have themselves tested. It is very important to know our HIV status. I also want to thank the Mr Lesley Mshali of the Caneside Clinic for making this day possible by allowing us the opportunity to empower the community on World Aids Day.

Mr Lesley Mshali of the Caneside Clinic said that his dedicated team of staff works tirelessly to service the community. World Aids Day is a very significant day and brings to the fore to realities of the incurable disease. The community must take full advantage of our “Know your Status” campaign whereby our Doctor every Fridays is available to conduct such tests.

Miss Gopal of the Phoenix Child and Family Welfare Society said that we cannot run away from the HIV / AIDS scourge. The reality of knowing your status is that treatment is available and people must make use of the services of the Clinic. We must work together as a community in the fight against HIV / Aids.