The District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU), in collaboration with KNP+, observed the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on Sunday, at Marocchino Hall, Christ King Higher Secondary School, Kohima.
Held under the global theme “We Remember. We Rise. We Lead.”, the memorial honoured lives lost to AIDS while reaffirming the community’s collective commitment to awareness, treatment, and solidarity in the fight against HIV.
In her keynote address, Aching, President of KNP+, underscored the emotional and social significance of the memorial. “We remember our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives to this virus. We remember their struggle and pain. However, we will not let their lives be lost in vain,” she said, calling for continued efforts in awareness, treatment adherence, and the fight against stigma.
A powerful testimonial was shared by Mushem, who spoke of her lived experience with HIV. She detailed the emotional toll of stigma and loss, but also the transformative role of community support and access to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in leading a healthy life.
The event also featured cultural and musical performances, including a worship dance by Abigail & Friends, a solo by Mengubeinuo Mere, and a duet by Clare and Irene. The programme was chaired by Sentimongla Tzudir, District Programme Officer, DAPCU, with an invocation by Sr. Teresa Monica, Headmistress of CKHSS.
The memorial concluded with a mass prayer and the lighting of candles in remembrance of those who have died of AIDS.