Johannesburg is stepping up its fight against HIV/AIDS, reaffirming the City’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with civil society to reduce infections and expand access to treatment. On 08 October 2025, the Johannesburg Aids Council (JAC) held its quarterly meeting at the Connie Bapela Council Chambers in Braamfontein, drawing together City officials and representatives from youth, women, faith-based, business, and research organisations.
Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero praised the collaborative spirit since the Council’s relaunch in May 2025. “I am encouraged by the commitment shown by civil society in partnering with the City to ensure the reduction of HIV and Aids. Together, we can make meaningful strides in saving lives and restoring hope,” he said.
Since May, the JAC has led two major awareness activations — at Maponya Mall and Jabulani Amphitheatre — offering HIV testing, PrEP initiation, and broader health screenings. Residents also received testing for prostate cancer, TB, blood pressure, and other STIs. These campaigns aim not just to increase access to care, but to dismantle stigma surrounding HIV treatment.
The Joburg Civil Society Forum has supported these efforts through door-to-door education drives, ward-based awareness campaigns, community dialogues, and workshops tackling discrimination. Their work is critical in reaching communities often overlooked by formal healthcare systems.
Despite these strides, challenges remain stark. Across South Africa, approximately 1.1 million individuals are not linked to HIV care or have disengaged from treatment. Within Gauteng, the gap stands at 326,346 people, including 141,215 from the Johannesburg district alone.
Johannesburg’s approach shows that tackling HIV/AIDS requires more than policy—it demands sustained, community-driven action that combines healthcare, education, and social engagement. The JAC’s quarterly meeting was not just an update; it was a reminder that partnerships between the City and civil society are vital if Johannesburg is to turn the tide on HIV/AIDS.