HIV POSITIVE PERSONS STILL FACING STIGMA DECADES LATER – GhettoRadio 89.5 FM

As the country joins the rest of the world to mark World Aids  Day, there is still more to be done with a section of those living with disease decrying inadequate support from the government ,stigmatization, discrimination among other inequalities.

Dan Abong’o a 54 year old cobbler in Kariobangi North has lived with the  disease for 22 years having contracted   the disease in 2000.

According to Dan he is still suffering stigmatization by his own family members.

“Yeah to me stigmatization is one of my biggest challenges, I have lost many  of my relatives because of  AIDS. They don’t want to associate with me  and they are the people who should motivate me so it’s irritating and the government must initiate programs that are geared in fighting stigmatization,” he said.

In his journey Daniel has made strides in ensuring that his children are safe and not tormented with his health condition.

“I have six children, three in my first marriage but what I can assure you is that I have made sure that they are safe and well catered for …I have also shared the same with them so that they can also take care,” he narrated.

Daniel on the other hand applauded the non-governmental organisations for the greater support to those living with AIDS.

“Huge support comes from NGOs. They do a lot in   counseling, financial support, mentorship programmes that play a big role in our wellbeing,” he stated.

This year’s slogan is dubbed  “Equalize” a  slogan that is calling everyone into action  to work for the proven practical actions needed to address inequalities and help end AIDS.

These include:  Increase availability, quality and suitability of services, for HIV treatment, testing and prevention, so that everyone is well-served, reform laws, policies and practices to tackle the stigma and exclusion faced by people living with HIV and by key and marginalized populations, so that everyone is shown respect and is welcomed. 

By Allan Otieno