On Sunday 19 May 2013, for the 30th time, grassroots organizations worldwide will commemorate International AIDS Candlelight Memorial. Communities will raise awareness around HIV, stand together with people living with HIV and remember the loved ones lost to HIV and AIDS.

The theme of the 30th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is “In solidarity”. The theme of “In solidarity” emphasizes the need for people living with and affected by HIV to join hands and work together in the response to HIV. Solidarity in communities is essential to reduce stigma and promote the involvement of people living with HIV in order to ensure a more effective HIV response. Only together as communities can we advocate for universal access to quality health and social services.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is much more than just a memorial. The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as a community mobilization campaign to raise social consciousness about HIV and AIDS. With 33 million people living with HIV today, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial serves as an important intervention for global solidarity, breaking down barriers of stigma and discrimination, and giving hope to new generations.
In Botswana, between 320 000 and 350 000 people are estimated to be living with HIV with 30.4% of pregnant women aged between 15 and 49 living with HIV. Botswana will join the rest of the world to commemorate the memorial.