Arusha to Durban AIDS Cycle Relay

Am AIDS Cycle Relay will begin in Arusha, Tanzania on 22 August 2002 and end in Durban on 21 September. The aim is to get people talking openly about the issues surrounding AIDS.

Talking openly about sex and AIDS is still taboo in many communities, which exacerbates the problem of the Virus. And while people are dodging the issues, statistics are climbing - 60 million people are believed to have been infected by the HI VIrus - 22 million people have already died - the vast majority in southern Africa. AIDS affects the most productive members of society, breadwinners and parents. But children are also severely affected - 13 million children and youths are left orphaned and another 1,1 million children are living with the Virus, largely as a result of parent-to-child transmission.

Although the picture of these statistics is a gloomy one, the success rate of action taken by countries such as Uganda and Senegal inspired the AIDS Cycle relay. It is clear that messages of prevention will reduce the overall spread of the disease.

By disseminating pamphlets, and through drama, music and speeches with an emphasis on the advocacy aspect of affordable anti-retroviral drugs, the 2002 Relay will try to initiate public debate with civil society and governments in southern Africa.

If you would like to get involved in the sponsorship of this event, contact Robert Michel on (011) 671 1350.