Midweek reporter
A memorial service was held in Masvingo to commemorate the life and legacy of Auxillia Chimusoro, a pioneering HIV/AIDS activist who dedicated her life to fighting against stigma and discrimination surrounding the disease.
The memorial service was held in Rujeko with a procession in the suburb ending at BHASO office which she established before she passed on.
Auxillia, affectionately known as Mai Farai, was a true champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Her bold decision to publicly disclose her HIV-positive status in 1989 helped break the silence and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe.
Eveline Breda, former Matron of Masvingo City Council, remembered Auxillia as a courageous and selfless individual who inspired countless others to join the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“Auxillia was a true hero who fought tirelessly to create a world where people living with HIV/AIDS could live healthy, dignified lives, free from stigma and discrimination,” Breda said.
“Her legacy continues to inspire us today, and we must continue to walk in her footsteps to ensure that her vision becomes a reality,” she added.
The memorial service was attended by friends, family, and fellow advocates who came to pay tribute to Auxillia’s remarkable life and legacy.
Since Auxillia’s pioneering work, Zimbabwe has made significant progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The country has seen increased access to treatment, a decline in new infections, reduced AIDS-related deaths, and increased awareness and education.
