World Aids Day radiothon

25 Nov 2004

Talk Radio 702 has announced major plans to mark World Aids Day on December 1 with a radiothon aimed at raising hundreds of thousands of rands for the Topsy Foundation. There will also be a balloon release to pay tribute to people living with HIV/Aids will form part of the days programme.

"We are positive about HIV/Aids," said 702's station manager, Yusuf Abramjee. Scores of volunteers, including prominent South Africans, will operate the 60 radiothon phone-lines which will be open from 6am to 6pm on December 1.

"The 702 Aids Day Radiothon will give listeners and other supporters the opportunity to make a real difference to those living with HIV/Aids. The city will stand united on World Aids Day as we dig deep into our pockets to show how much we care for our fellow South Africans," said Abramjee.

Shortly after 1pm, tens of thousands of red balloons will be released from outside 702's Sandton studios at Primedia Place, corner Gwen and Fredman Drive.

"The release is symbolic and is designed to highlight the radiothon, the positive contributions made by organisations like the Topsy Foundation, to acknowledge the challenge that those living with HIV/Aids face on a daily basis and to remember the many victims of the disease," explained Abramjee.

Various South Africans from all walks of life will witness the release. Judge Edwin Cameron, who is HIV positive, will be one of the guest speakers. Former Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, is one of many leading personalities who have pledged their support to the 702 Aids Day Radiothon.

"Please support this very worthy cause..." Kaunda said. "Fight for your life, fight HIV/Aids, fight for your future, fight for Mother Africa," Kaunda added.

On World Aids Day, 702 will dedicate its programming to the radiothon and the focus will be on HIV/Aids. "We will chat to various roleplayers including victims and NGO's. We will highlight the plight of women and children - in line with this year's theme," said Abramjee.

The Topsy Foundation partners with rural communities, bringing about change through a multi-faceted approach to the consequences of HIV/Aids.

"The foundation has a vision of flourishing rural communities, where people have the tools to change, and where young people in particular are productive members of society, in spite of the impacts of HIV/Aids.

"We run various operations including in-house care programmes, home and community based care and training and poverty alleviation programmes," said Grant Law, Topsy's director of communication and fundraising.