Khomanani Day celebrated

The George Municipality annually celebrates Khomanani Day, a national mobilisation campaign focusing on HIV/ Aids and its effects.

This year, food parcels and blankets were handed to HIV/Aids support groups that positively impact the fight against the disease by promoting community action and awareness.

The day was celebrated on Friday 26 October at the Lawaaikamp Community Centre. A wellness programme was offered, including motivational speeches and personal pampering by the home-based carers and peer educators of the George Municipality.

George Mayor Melvin

Naik said Khomanani Day is a reminder that we have a shared responsibility to care for one another. "Be there for one another, support and reach out to each other," said Naik. He appealed to all to support and intensify the fight so as to overcome HIV/ Aids and related illnesses. "We cannot be spectators in this fight - let us care together," he said. The chairperson of the George Local Aids Council, Choice Somagaca, was the programme director of the day and Cllr Shahied Rooiland did the welcoming. Cllr Sean Snyman, portfolio councillor for Social Development, gave a background of the day and said "Khomanani", simply put, means "we care". "George Municipality cares, your family cares, those that support you care and we are tasked to ensure that you care," he said.

Naik thanked all the support groups for their good work and handed over food parcels and blankets. Deputy Mayor Charlotte Clarke thanked all involved in the event, including members of the community, all departments, and non-profit organisations, for helping fight the HIV pandemic.