Mandela and AIDS activist Zackie Achmat on a visit to the Nolungile Clinic and Community Health Center in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa, on Dec. 12, 2002. The New Zealand AIDS Foundation has paid tribute to Nelson Mandela for his HIV/AIDS advocacy work. “As well as vigorously fighting against all the evils of apartheid system, Mr Mandela became a champion of the fight against the South Africa’s rampant AIDS epidemic,” it says. “His legacy lives on in those who continue to fight for the rights of people living with HIV in South Africa and around the world. In addition to his significant work on HIV and AIDS, he strongly and passionately advocated for sexual minority groups. May he rest in peace.” The NZAF has offered deep condolences to the Mandela family and the people of South Africa. Rainbow Wellington has also paid tribute. "Mandela, doubtless inspired by Desmond Tutu, has been the only liberator President to support LGBTI rights consistently, including ensuring that they were enshrined in the new constitution,” says Chair Rawa Karetai. “A very sad occasion but reflecting on Mandela's life we have a lot to celebrate because of his efforts. Thank you Mandela for everything you have done." There will be a public memorial service for Nelson Mandela at Auckland’s Holy Trinity Cathedral at midday this Friday.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 9th December 2013 - 3:55pm