Former president Nelson Mandela has called on the world to fight Aids with a stronger resolve than was used to defeat apartheid.
Speaking from Robben Island on Friday, the president emeritus told journalists that Africa and the world had fought a noble struggle against apartheid.
However, ”there is now a greater enemy and threat in HIV and Aids. it threatens our future,” Mandela said while surrounded by the artists who would perform at the 46664 Aids awareness concert to be held on Saturday.
Mandela said he was heartened to see people of such talent give their time to fight the pandemic.
”People like these remind us that the divisions of nationality and colour do not prevent us from caring. It is so splendid of them to give their time and talent to launch the 46664 campaign to raise awareness of Aids and to raise funds.”
Mandela also praised the government’s recent announcement pledging R12-billion over the next four years to fight against Aids.
”Government has announced policy measures that will put us in the lead in the fight against Aids.”
Mandela said it is fitting that the concert would take place on the heels of the government announcement. — Sapa