GEITA: THE Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) is aiming to raise 1 million US dollars (about 2.6bn/-) through this year’s GGML Kili Challenge to support the country’s fight against HIV/ AIDS.
The annual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing campaign will take place from July 24 to 30, under the theme, “It Is Everyone’s Responsibility,” bringing together GGML, its contractors and other private sector organisations to mobilise resources for the national HIV/AIDS response.
Speaking during the company’s Health Day event held recently, Acting GGML General Manager Mr Duan Campbell said the campaign was officially launched on June 30th this year, and called on all Tanzanians to support the initiative.
He said the annual challenge brings together representatives from GGML, its contractors and various private sector institutions to promote health and safety awareness while raising funds for HIV/AIDS interventions.
“Although climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is symbolic, the main objective is to continue raising public awareness and supporting the nation’s efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Mr Campbell said.
He said the GGML Kili Challenge Against HIV/ AIDS is a national initiative coordinated annually by GGML in collaboration with the Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS) to help prevent new HIV infections and reduce the impact of the epidemic.
Geita Regional Medical Officer Dr Omar Sukari said the region is estimated to have about 95,000 people living with HIV, but only 80 per cent know their HIV status.
Dr Sukari said the 2025 GGML Kili Challenge raised 100m/-, which was used to support HIV/AIDS response activities and strengthen various intervention programmes.
“We are proud of everyone who dedicated their time, energy and commitment to represent GGML in this important campaign,” he said.
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Geita District Administrative Secretary Ms Lucy Beda urged residents to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS, saying regular health screening and adherence to preventive measures remain among the most effective ways of curbing new infections.
She said routine health screening enables people to know their health status early, seek timely treatment and live with confidence.
“I urge everyone to join hands and contribute. No contribution is too small when it comes to saving the lives of Tanzanians and strengthening the national HIV/AIDS response,” Ms Beda said.
She added that the government has invested significantly in health education and healthcare services, urging young people to intensify efforts to protect themselves against HIV infection.