Highligting the importance of compassion and understanding for people affected with HIV and AIDS, the 42nd International AIDS Candle Light Memorial 2025, which is an annual event held on the third Sunday of May, was observed on May 18 at IG Stadium, Meriema under the theme “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead “.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Akuo Sorhie, Former Project Director, NSACS mentioned that the gathering is a quiet reflection and profound united purpose, which marks one of the most significant and solemn days in the global calendar. Remembering the lives taken by HIV and AIDS, Sorhie remarked that each person lost was someone’s whole world. “Many of them fought with extraordinary dignity for decades, was misunderstood and heavily stigmatized. We light the candles, not just in mourning, but in recognition of their strength, their dreams, their stories,” expressed Sorhie.
Speaking about the courage, endurance and humanity of affected individuals, Sorhie added, “HIV is not a death sentence, but a journey that demands support, dignity, and hope.” To the community, institutions, civil society, and individuals, Sorhie urged that they must lead by speaking out, by advocating, by pushing boundaries and demanding justice.
She also acknowledged NACO Led by DG NACO Hekali Zhimomi, Medical Minister P Paiwang konyak , Commissioner Secy HFW, Anoop Khinchi, the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) led by Dr Ahu Sekhose, and all those orking hand in hand with them, for their unwavering leadership & partnership with communities. Sorhie also appealed the policymakers and elected officials to make HIV and AIDS a priority; protect the rights of People living with HIV; support youth-friendly health services; and strengthen healthcare systems especially in rural and underserved areas.
Sharing experiences as an affected family, Aching, President, KNP+, recounted her journey back to 2004 when she was detected as an HIV positive, and how her husband passed away before Antiretroviral Therapy (ART she overcame depression after knowing about her status. She highlighted about the many challenges back in those days especially stigma and discrimination about HIV, limited access to treatment and the refusal of people to come out and speak about HIV,.
However, Aching mentioned that, today there are stocks or medicines and testing machines unlike earlier. “HIV positive patients are scared of public which is why they cannot come forward to take medication or treatments. The community alone cannot help people with HIV, we also need the help of churches. Churches should also work hand in hand to give out awareness. With proper awareness and support, this virus can be stopped from spreading but fear of stigmatization will only spread virus,” she added.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Lanu President, NNP+ highlighted that the international AIDS candle light memorial serves as a time for people around the world to come together to honor the life lost to AIDS, and renew commitment to show support for people living with HIV. Beyond remembrance, Lanu said, the memorial service also serves as a call to action, a challenge to stigma and promotes awareness urging communities to support those affected by HIV.
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He also highlighted that in 2023, over nine million people living with HIV did not access life saving HIV treatment. 6,30,000 people die from AIDS and 1.3 million people newly acquire HIV, out of which 1,20,000 were children.
“This sad reality can only be changed by the PLHIV leaders in collaboration with the government,” said Lanu.
He further noted that events organized across the world on this day, help to rise awareness about HIV and ensure that all have access to life-saving treatment and to be alive and drive beyond 2030.
“About 28 million people have died from AIDS since the AIDS epidemic began in 1981, and more than 42 million people are still coping with HIV / AIDS. It’s time for all of us to remember that many life lost to it. It’s an opportunity to honor those who dedicated their lives to help people living with and affected by HIV and continue to mobilize our community in solidarity,” he concluded.
As part of the event, after a one minute of silence a symbolic lighting of candles was held.
During the program Sedekhriezo Whuorie, Associate Pastor, CRC Bayavü hill, Kohima invoked God’s blessings while the concluding remarks was given by Dr Ahu Sekhose, Project Director NSACS.
