30/11/09 - World AIDS Day Eve - Candlelight Procession on the streets of Chipata
on A Zambian Experience (Zambia), 03/Dec/2009 13:06, 34 days ago
Today the community of Chipata gathered at Barclays Bank Square in the town to open the National World AIDS day candlelight procession. The event was kicked off with a performance from Kewesu drama group, who opened the event with traditional African dancing. A choir and other local musicians then entertained the crowd before a speech was made by local dignitaries, including the District Commissioner of Chipata and the Deputy Administrative office of Chipata, who was the guest of honour. The boys’ brigade then led a marching procession of community groups and the public towards St Anne’s Cathedral, where the official Candlelight Service began.Local pastors, spiritual leaders and government leaders spoke of the need for universal access to HIV and AIDS support services and there was a call to make everyone aware that this access is part of everyone’s human rights. Two HIV positive members of the community addressed the congregation and spoke of their own testimonies in order to encourage others to speak out for fair treatment.The service ended with prayers and each member of the congregation lit a candle to commemorate those who have died in the last year of the HIV pandemic in Zambia.Despite the sombre subject matter, there was a mood of celebration and thanksgiving and I felt honoured to be part of the event!