Mandela and Tutu lend support to Dettol Trust for Aids

In addition to their status as leaders in their respective fields, Mr Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu are two of the most outspoken individuals in South Africa about HIV/AIDS. Their plight for human rights and helping to support those affected and infected with HIV/AIDS has made them global leaders for the cause. The Dettol Trust for AIDS (DTA) is honoured to have the support of two such prominent and revered individuals. Both of these great men agreed to pledge their support to the extensive work done through the DTA by recording Public Service Announcements (PSA).

In November last year, Archbishop Desmond Tutu recorded a PSA that was launched on World AIDS Day. In the PSA he emphasises the need for action in the face of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Mr Mandela has recorded a PSA and in his address highlights human rights, equality and freedom of choice. It is his choice to support the children who are victims of HIV and AIDS and encourages the public to support the DTA and in so doing helping our most valuable treasures.

Reckitt Benckiser, Marketing Director Southern Africa, Enrico Baldassarri said, "The support from Mr Mandela and the Archbishop will ensure that the DTA can continue to make a tangible difference to the lives of those children who are affected and infected with HIV/AIDS."

Cindy Nell, Miss South Africa 2002, has embraced the DTA as one of her official charities during her reign. She too has filmed a PSA in support of the DTA.

The SABC has shown its support to the DTA by becoming the official media partner and has tied in with Reckitt Benckiser as part of their own Corporate Social Investment program. The 60" and 30" versions of the PSAs have been flighted exclusively by the SABC on all their TV channels and 19 radio stations from Friday, May 30, 2003.

With the launch of The DTA in 2002 it established a medium via which the South African Public could contribute to children affected and infected with HIV/AIDS. This was a unique opportunity offered by a consumer brand.

The DTA has a number of influential partners who are making a difference to the children by promoting and supporting the DTA. Major retailers such as the Spar Group, Shoprite Great North and Metro have and continue to donate off-shelf space for specially marked Dettol products.

"When launching the DTA it never crossed our minds that we would receive the support we have from the public, the trade and the media. And to receive the support from two such remarkable men as Mr Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu truly makes us proud," said Category Manager at Reckitt Benckiser, Karen Kruger.