BY DIRAMAKINI
THE Geita Gold Mine Limited (GGML)-Kilimanjaro HIV/AIDS Challenge against HIV/AIDS, will kick off on 15th of July 2022 at Machame Gate and arriving back at Mweka Gate on 21st of July 2022.
Some of the cyclists who will be participating in the GGML Kili Challenge campaign by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with the aim of raising funds to fund the eradication of HIV and AIDS.
On his statement to media, The Manager for Kilimanjaro Challenge Against HIV and AIDs Trust, Manace Ndoroma, said the Challenge has grown from humble beginnings since its inception in 2002 to a multinational event, hosting over 500 climbers from 6 continents and over 20 countries, which has raised more that 2 million dollars to date.
“You too can play your part by joining our team of climbers and cyclers in 2022 helping us raise funds for this truly noble event. Please take time to think of how a small gesture on your part could be life-changing for someone else.
He added, “the impact of HIV/AIDS on the population of Tanzania is devastating as many frail elders have to take over the care of young children after the death of their parents as a result of this disease. Many of these families do not have the financial means to support these children, and many are left without food, water or medical care.”
Ndoroma said since the humble beginnings of their first Geita Gold Mine Kilimanjaro HIV/AIDS Challenge expedition in 2002, the number of new infections in Tanzania has more than halved.
“The distribution of funds to various beneficiaries has been critical to our commitment to getting to three zeros by improving infrastructure through the construction of orphanages, schools, clinics, and counselling centres, as well as the renovation of existing local and regional medical facilities,” he revealed.
Also increased access to services for detecting, treating, and counselling infected people and their communities.
In 2002, AngloGold Ashanti - Geita Gold Mine launched in partnership with Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS) the Geita Gold Mine Kilimanjaro HIV/AIDS Challenge at its operations in Geita, Tanzania.
The Geita Gold Mine Kilimanjaro HIV/AIDS Challenge is an annual fundraising event that supports the Tanzanian government's nationwide initiative towards zero new HIV infections, zero stigma and discrimination and zero deaths related to AIDS.