By Michael Liswaniso OPUWO Friday last week marked the 18th anniversary of World AIDS Day, which this year was officially hosted at national level by Kunene’s regional capital, Opuwo. The day, which was commemorated under the international theme: “Stop AIDS-Keep the Promise”, saw Namibia adopt its own national sub-theme: “Zero tolerance to new HIV infections among the youth”. A chain of cultural performances by local groups featured on the entertainment list, together with netball and football tournaments which ended yesterday. The Minister of Education, Nangolo Mbumba, delivered the keynote address on behalf of Prime Minister Nahas Angula. Other prominent figures who delivered brief remarks were the Gender Equality and Child welfare Deputy Minister Angelika Muharukua, United Nations’ Resident Coordinator Simon Nhongo, Senior Traditional Councillor of the Vita Thom Royal House Mika Muhenje and as well as the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, who gave the public an overview of the acceleration of HIV prevention. Everyone spoke about the negative impacts that the disease has on the country and called for teamwork and other support, given the current governmental and global support at hand. Opuwo Mayor Peter de Villiers, who delivered the vote of thanks, reiterated Governor Dudu Murorua’s welcoming remarks by thanking the government for its support and for choosing Opuwo as the official host of the national day that was also commemorated in other parts of the country. The international day is commemorated on the 1st of December each year with the aim to increase awareness, fight discrimination and improve education.