World Aids Day, observed on December 1, brings to the forefront the collective effort required to combat HIV/AIDS. In South Africa, where an estimated 7.52 million people were living with HIV in 2018 (tbfacts.org), the fight against the disease is intertwined with personal narratives of resilience and courage.Sophie Ndaba, former ‘Generations’ star, shared insights on living with diabetes for almost a decade, emphasizing the challenges and dispelling misconceptions. In an Instagram post on World Diabetes Day, the 50-year-old highlighted the discomfort, pain, confusion, and constant monitoring associated with the condition.Sophie revealed that her diabetes led to significant weight loss, triggering rumors of terminal illness and even HIV. Despite facing online attacks and death hoaxes, she urged awareness about the severity of diabetes, emphasizing that it’s not something one would wish on their worst enemy.

 

 

 

 

 

Criselda Dudumashe: 20 Years of DefianceLOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 23: Criselda Dudumashe speaks during the BET International: Global Good Presents: Madiba screening & panel discussion during the 2018 BET Experience on June 23, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Earl Gibson III/Getty Images for BET)
Renowned radio personality Criselda Dudumashe stands as a beacon of strength in the face of HIV. Having disclosed her status in her book, ‘You Are Never Alone: God’s Favourite Daughter,’ Criselda has been an HIV/AIDS ambassador for two decades. She traverses the country, sharing her personal journey to dispel myths and provide hope.

In a poignant Instagram post from 2017, she reflected on her journey. “How long doctor?” she whispered. “How long do I have, living with this?” The response was daunting: “Maximum, two years.” Yet, 19 years later, Criselda stands tall, her resilience echoing the spirit of Joshua 11: 1-9.JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – July 27, 2002: Former President Nelson Mandela with Aids treatment activist Zackie Achmat. Both of these public figures have become powerful forces in South Africa’s battle against Aids. (Photo: Gallo Images via Getty Images/Sunday Times/Terry Shean)
In 1990, famous South African film director Abdurrazack ‘Zackie’ Achmat received a diagnosis that gave him only three months to live. Refusing to succumb to despair, he became an activist, co-founding the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), a prominent HIV/AIDS organization. Achmat’s work aims to eradicate the stigma surrounding HIV, encapsulated in the empowering slogan, ‘HIV Positive.’

Musa ‘Queen’ Njoko: A Journey of OvercomingGospel star Musa Njoko, living with HIV for over two decades, exemplifies triumph over adversity. Given only a few months to live, Musa defied the odds. In a recent tweet, she shared a poignant moment: “He was just under 2yrs when I was diagnosed with HIV. I was given 3 months to live… By the grace of God, I’ve lived to see him not only start school but become an international star.”

These celebrities, living with HIV/AIDS for more than ten years, serve as living proof that with a positive attitude and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, HIV doesn’t have to be the end. Their stories inspire a nation to unite against stigma and continue the fight for a world free from the shackles of HIV/AIDS.World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1st, serves as a reminder of the global struggle against HIV and AIDS. In South Africa, where an estimated 7.52 million people were living with HIV in 2018, the fight against the disease is more crucial than ever.

The battle involves raising awareness, providing support, and challenging stereotypes surrounding HIV. In this article, we’ll introduce you to three notable South African celebrities who have openly shared their experiences of living with HIV, dedicating their lives to the cause.

Criselda Dudumashe: A Resilient Radio Personality
Criselda Dudumashe, a well-known radio personality, has not only been an advocate for HIV/AIDS but also a living example of resilience. She has been living with the virus for two decades. In her book, ‘You Are Never Alone: God’s Favorite Daughter,’ Criselda courageously opened up about her journey with the disease.

As an HIV/AIDS ambassador, she travels across the nation, sharing her story and insights on living with this deadly illness. In 2017, she shared her remarkable journey on Instagram, defying the initial prognosis that gave her only two years to live. Her unwavering spirit is an inspiration to many.