Launch of Project Accept (19 June 2006)

The ceremonial launch of Project Accept was held on the 19 June 2006 in Mapetla, Soweto.

The launch was attended by over hundred delegates from various sectors including, Provincial and Local Government structures, politicians (ward councilors), non-governmental organisations / community-based organisations involved in HIV and Aids work, and members of the project’s community working groups and PHRU staff.

Mr Tsietsi Motholo and Professor Glenda Gray were program directors. Councilor S.D. Padi welcomed all. Community Voluntary Counseling and Testing speech, was given by Ms Meisie Lerutla, Deputy Director HIV and AIDS Programmes - City of Johannesburg. Prof. Tom Coates, from David Geffen School of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Los Angels responsible for the overall study, presented the objectives of Project Accept, he was accompanied by thirteen visitors from various institutions in the USA.

Candle lighting was done by Ms Grace Bofolo, a member of a Community Working Group in Mapetla. Entertainment was provided by Ithemba Lamangwe and Thesele Group.

Professor Glenda Gray, acknowleged Ms Cynthia Nhlapo’s (Deputy Director, Voluntary Counseling and Testing- National) apology, she was called back to attend an urgent Health Minister’s meeting. She was to give a speech, Voluntary Counseling and Testing from National perspective.

Ms Precious Modiba gave a vote of thanks. At the end of the launch, Councilor Morgan Komati was requested to cut the ribbon on behalf of the Member of the Mayoral Committee, (MMC) Health, City of Johannesburg. Speakers were provided with a token of appreciation, and everybody was invited for a late lunch.