Bold move

27 March 2008 - 02:00
By unknown

Tying the knot naturally follows a genuine commitment between two people who have declared unconditional love for each other.

Tying the knot naturally follows a genuine commitment between two people who have declared unconditional love for each other.

A decade ago, the step taken by HIV-negative Nolundi Belene, from Eastern Cape, to marry her HIV-positive sweetheart, Solomon Zimba, would have been unheard of.

Worse, society would have frowned upon such a union.

Thankfully, through the tireless work of many Aids activists, the stigma is being gradually removed - though there are still some elements who treat HIV-positive people as lepers and portray HIV-Aids as a disease of the promiscuous only.

Belene's decision is therefore not only courageous but complements the campaign to de-stigmatise HIV-Aids.

Many people living with the disease can and do lead productive and normal lives.