SANERELA+ caucus meeting of 15 participants to monitor health facilities across seven districts, Johannesburg 11- 14 May 2026
These stories serve as evidence of the effectiveness of community health interventions and the vital contribution of Mentor Mothers and Peer Educators in achieving PMTCT program goals.
My name is Deo NTAHONGENDERA, and I am a church leader serving in Cibitoke Province, Burundi. I work closely with BUNERELA+ in the fight against HIV/AIDS, where I serve as a
peer educator. I have many responsibilities within my community, and I carry them out with commitment, passion, and joy.
Today, I am not afraid to share my story. I no longer feel the need to hide my HIV status because I believe that my experience can encourage others to seek testing, treatment, and hope. As a community leader and peer educator, I see it as my responsibility to speak openly and help people understand that living with HIV is not the end of life.
I am a father, and sadly, I lost my wife. When we became infected with HIV, we did not know our status for a long time. Because of misinformation, blind faith, and certain beliefs, some people advised us to rely only on prayer and trust that God would heal us without getting tested or seeking medical care. However, we were fortunate to meet people who encouraged us to visit a health facility, get tested, and follow medical advice. This decision changed our lives for the better.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is the value of HIV testing. Before we knew our HIV status, we lost two children because we were unaware of our condition and did not receive the necessary care. After we got tested, learned our status, and followed the guidance of healthcare professionals, the children we had afterward were all born HIV-free. This experience convinced me that knowing your status can save lives.
That is why I encourage everyone who has not yet been tested to take that important step. People should move from ignorance to knowledge and understand their health status. When someone avoids testing or hides from the truth, they risk losing many opportunities to protect themselves and their loved ones. On the other hand, when a pregnant woman knows her HIV status and receives proper medical follow-up, healthcare providers can help ensure that her baby is born healthy and free from HIV.
We continue to encourage community members to get tested because HIV is a reality that must be addressed with knowledge and action. Our work is entirely voluntary; we receive no financial compensation. We do it because it is our calling, and because we genuinely care about helping others.
I have now lived with HIV for more than 40 years, and through sharing my testimony, many people have found the courage to come forward, get tested, and seek treatment. I do not want other families to suffer from the same mistakes that my family experienced. My goal is to work together with others to save as many lives as possible and to ensure that more people live healthy, hopeful, and productive lives. My message is simple: Know your HIV status, follow medical advice, and never lose hope. HIV is not the end of life. With testing, treatment, and support, people living with HIV can live long, healthy, and meaningful lives.