SPEECH BY KWAZULU-NATAL MEC OF TRANSPORT AT THE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WITHIN THE TAXI INDUSTRY

22 May 2001, Empangeni Taxi Rank

Master of Ceremonies,
KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Dr Zweli Mkhize,
Senior Officials from Health and Transport Departments,
Deputy Chairperson KwaZulu-Natal Taxi Council, Mr Mthiyane,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen

One the most critical issues facing our province is HIV/AIDS. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport recognises the fact that the transport system itself can have a role in both the spread and prevention of this disease. Roads transport eighty per cent of people and goods in this province. Moreover, KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa's most populous province and also among the poorest. This alone says a lot about possibilities that may obtain within such a social landscape.

Over the past few weeks, the Judicial Taxi Commission made some recommendations that may alter the manner in which this industry operates. Among recommendations was the establishment of commuter associations, which will look into the needs, and complaints of commuters. As part of the implementation plan of these recommendations, we want to work through these associations in sensitising not only commuters but also the entire communities on the subject of HIV/AIDS and the dangers of unprotected sex. We will put a special emphasis on the role that a man can play in preventing the spread of this disease.

With the Integrated Transport System already in place, we hope to be able to formulate proper strategies in combating this disease. The commuter associations that I have referred to here will not work with taxis only; rather they will focus their attention on all forms of public transport. This means that they will spread their messages to the bus industry and trains as well.

We want to see each and every taxi rank fiercely campaigning against the spread of this disease.

We realise that strategies that seek to eliminate the spread of HIV/AIDS through the involvement of the elite only fail to serve their mission if they do not involve the masses. We will only succeed if we work in partnerships with the masses. This is what we will be doing through the involvement of commuter associations.

Our zero tolerance includes zero tolerance for dangerous lifestyles. We want to use transport to bring about an AIDS free generation.

I thank you.

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