BONEPWA+ Leads the Nation in Remembering and Renewing Hope — 2024 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, Tlokweng
Under the theme “Together We Remember, Together We Heal, Through Love and Solidarity,” the Botswana Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS (BONEPWA+) proudly hosted the 2024 National Commemoration of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in Tlokweng, a moving and unifying event that brought together communities, leaders, and partners to honor lives lost to AIDS, celebrate progress, and renew collective commitment to ending HIV in Botswana.
The commemoration served as both a moment of reflection and a rallying call for action. People living with HIV, community organizations, government representatives, development partners, and faith leaders gathered in solidarity — demonstrating the power of unity and compassion in sustaining the national HIV response.
As the national umbrella and coordinating body for people living with HIV, BONEPWA+ led this year’s commemoration as a reminder that behind every statistic is a story, and behind every story is a person deserving of dignity, love, and life. The event featured heartfelt testimonies from people living with HIV, performances by youth groups, and messages of support from key partners, including NAHPA, UNAIDS, CSO partners, and local leadership.
In her keynote address, the BONEPWA+ Board Chairperson reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advancing Positive Health, Dignity, and Prevention (PHDP) and strengthening community-led monitoring to ensure that no one is left behind. She highlighted that remembering those lost to AIDS must ignite renewed resolve to protect the living through continued advocacy, access to treatment, and breaking the silence around stigma and discrimination.
The 2024 Candlelight Memorial was not only a tribute to those who have passed but also a symbol of resilience for those who continue to live positively. It reminded all present that hope burns brightest when communities stand together.
As the candles flickered against the Tlokweng night sky, the message was clear - the fight is not over, but the light of compassion, remembrance, and solidarity continues to guide Botswana toward a future free of AIDS and filled with dignity for all.