Message by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the 20th anniversary of the Treatment Action Campaign

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) – which commemorates its 20th anniversary today, Monday, 10 December 2018 – for its activism for access to medicines and human rights.

The Treatment Action Campaign was founded on International Human Rights Day – 10 December 1998 – to campaign for access to AIDS treatment. The organisation has gained international regard as one of the most important civil society organisations campaigning around   AIDS in the developing world.

President Ramaphosa has commended TAC for making a lasting contribution to South African society and the development of the democratic dispensation in the country in the course of two decades of activism and transformation.

In a written message to the leadership, members and supporters of TAC, President Ramaphosa said TAC’s activism had saved lives and inspired action not only in South Africa but also in other parts of the world.

The President noted TAC’s treatment literacy initiatives as part of the organisation’s “living and ongoing legacy” that empowers people living with HIV to understand the medicines they are taking and adhere to treatment directives.
 
The President also acknowledged the sacrifices made by TAC members in the course of courageous and selfless service to the nation.
 
President Ramaphosa invited TAC to continue to lend a hand in quality-improvement initiatives in health care facilities and to participate in the practical implementation of the National Health Insurance.


Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President, on 072 854 5707

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria