Monday, December 2, 2024 - popular South African radio personality Criselda Kananda, who has been living with HIV for over 20 years, continues to face discrimination despite the progress made in public awareness and education.
Sharing her journey, Kananda highlighted the ongoing challenges and the
need for societal transformation to address stigma.
When asked how revealing her status had impacted her life, she said, “It
has had a profound effect on my life. It has allowed me to connect with others
who share similar experiences and are battling to accept. I’ve also become more
resilient and proactive about my health.”
On the changes in perception she has encountered since disclosing her
status, Kananda observed, “I have noticed a mix of reactions from others. Some
people have been incredibly supportive, while others have displayed an
interesting form of discrimination ... I would be reduced to just being an Aids
activist. Many people still hold misconceptions about HIV, which leads to fear
and discrimination.”
Kananda acknowledged the government’s efforts in addressing HIV but
called for more strategic prioritization. “The government has made strides in
educating the public. Additionally, funding for prevention programmes and
access to healthcare services should be prioritised and not only directed to
donors to reduce new infections effectively,” she said.
Recounting how she discovered her status, Kananda shared, “I discovered
my status during a routine check-up as a pregnant woman when I was tested for
HIV. Initially, I felt a wave of shock and fear.”
When asked about societal support, she expressed her hopes for a more
inclusive environment. “I would like to see society foster a more inclusive and
understanding environment for people living with HIV. For people living with
HIV to take personal responsibility for their health needs,” she said.
Kananda also spoke about the impact of HIV on her personal relationships
and love life. “Living with HIV has certainly influenced my personal
relationships and love life. Initially, I was apprehensive about dating and
sharing my status, bored by having to teach ignorant adults about the basics of
HIV and having to reduce myself to manage perceptions. However, I’ve learned
the importance of open communication and honesty.”
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