The latest publication or announcement about Mzansi being on the verge of discovering a cure for HIV & AIDS, left me overwhelmed with excitement; the prospect of realizing Love Life's objective: "Living with HIV-free Generation". What a colossal & emancipating discovery, viral load reduced to zero with no or minimal side-effects, and the ability of the cure to prevent HI Virus from entering the human cells. Wow, that's miraculous! My excitement was short lived by the thought of possible and realistic aftermath...
The current state of affairs - The ignorance displayed by South Africans with regard to the excruciatingly spiraling statistics of new infections, stereotypical thoughts that hamper progress and over shadow efforts made in raising awareness, destitute people wanting to contract HIV in order to access the Grants, and people's persistent apathy. Is the impending cure going to cause or exacerbate other social ills?
Most people, young & old, indulge in unprotected sex, even with the knowledge they had around HIV & AIDS. Then I pause & wonder about the aftermath: What's gonna happen to approximately 13 million people who are dependent on the state grant? Won't the country be in crisis with the sudden boom in natality (birth rate)? Won't we now see rape cases sky rocketing? Promiscuity or just casual engagement in coital acts? The prospect or fate of employees of flourishing HIV & AIDS related organizations? Capacity to deal with brimming or swarming rate of Sexually Transmitted Infections?
How do we instill sense of responsibility? Furthermore, will possible employment opportunities be created for millions who aren't working & are dependent on the state grant for survival? As we eagerly anticipate the treasurous discovery, one can't help but wonder...
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