The District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU) in collaboration with the KNP+ observed the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on 18th May 2025, at Marocchino Hall, Christ King Higher Secondary School, Kohima. The event, held under the global theme “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead.” aimed to honour those lost to AIDS and reaffirm the community’s commitment to fight HIV/AIDS through awareness, treatment, and solidarity.
Delivering the keynote, Aching, President of KNP+, highlighted the importance of the memorial in remembering the lives lost and the struggles faced by people living with HIV. “We remember our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives to this virus. We remember their struggle and pain. However, we will not let their lives be lost in vain,” she said, reaffirming the Network’s commitment to awareness, treatment adherence, and combating stigma and discrimination.
A moving testimonial was shared by Mushem, who recounted her personal journey with HIV—speaking of the stigma, the pain of loss, and the importance of community support. She emphasized that while HIV remains a major global health concern, adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) can enable those living with the virus to lead long and healthy lives.
The programme also featured worship dance performances by Abigail & Friends, a solo by Mengubeinuo Mere, and a duet by Clare and Irene while the program was chaired by Sentimongla Tzudir, District Program Officer, DAPCU, with an invocation prayer led by Sr. Teresa Monica, Headmistress of CKHSS.
The memorial concluded with a mass prayer and the lighting of candles in honour of those who have lost their lives to AIDS.
(Shahlong, IA Jakhama)
