After a days work and quite some meetings I am invited to give a talk for students of the University of Chicago, who are on a course in Cape Town. The students listen very attentive while I try to bring them closer the grim reality of HIV and AIDS in South Africa. Yes, we have made progress, yes, there are almost one million people on treatment – but also yes, there are problems with adherence and compliance, yes, it is a reality that still hundreds of South Africans die every day as a consequence of HIV and AIDS. And yes, there are logistical problems, and yes, they are instances, where treatment is not given – lack of money, resources, man power – you name it.
And yes, we haven’t reached the peak of the problem yet – the Soccer World Cup 2010 and all its tales cover nicely up for all the things not running well in our country. It is not the time to debate them now – now is the time for fun and joy and soccer. The world should see, what we have achieved so far – and yes, we have achieved a lot, but the reality starts again on the 12.07,2010 when the FIFA circus is moving on to the next country and South Africa is left alone…
Let’s see
Filed under: HIV and AIDS, Politics and Society, Reflection, Society and living environment, Aids, Chicago, FIFA, hiv, HIV Treatment, south africa
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