AS the world gathers once again to commemorate World AIDS Day, Tanzanians, especially our vibrant and determined youth must confront an uncomfortable truth: The war against HIV/AIDS has not been won. Yes, we have made significant progress. Yes, awareness is higher than ever before.
But the virus has not disappeared, and complacency is the most dangerous enemy we face today. In almost every household across our nation, someone has lost a relative, a neighbour, a colleague or a close friend to HIV/AIDS. It is a collective scar carried quietly by millions.
Even if you are not infected, you are undoubtedly affected. This shared history should remind us that the battle is far from over, and that our generation cannot afford to turn away or take progress for granted.
Young people now make up a large portion of new infections and this is not because they are reckless, but often because they are uninformed, misinformed or pressured into silence by stigma.
Many fear testing, many fear judgment and many fear being labelled. But fear has never saved a life-only knowledge, action and compassion do. The first step is responsibility.
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Every young Tanzanian must take charge of their own health: Get tested regularly, use protection and seek accurate information instead of relying on rumours. Modern medicine has advanced to the point where someone living with HIV who adheres to treatment can live a long, full and productive life. Treatment suppresses the virus, reduces illness and even prevents transmission.
This is not a message of despair; it is a message of hope. But hope does not survive in an environment poisoned by stigma. Too many of our brothers and sisters living with HIV still endure isolation, mockery and cruel jokes especially on social media. An illness is not a personality flaw; it is not a moral failing.
HIV can affect anyone. Laughing at someone living with the virus does not make you healthy; it only reveals your lack of understanding and empathy.
Social media is a powerful tool in today’s fight against HIV, but only if we use it responsibly. Instead of sharing misinformation, we should share verified facts. Instead of mocking, we should support. Instead of exposing private medical details, we should protect each other’s dignity.
The youth dominate the digital space and should use that influence to spread awareness, encourage testing and normalise conversations around sexual health. Be the generation that ends stigma, not the one that spreads it.
Professional health experts consistently emphasise that prevention, regular testing and early treatment remain the strongest weapons we have. They also stress confidentiality and human dignity.
So, let us follow their guidance rather than the noise of online gossip. World AIDS Day is not just a date on the calendar. It is a reminder that every Tanzanian has a role to play. The virus is still here, but so are we—and we are stronger when united. The fight continues, and with courage, compassion and responsibility, victory is still within reach.