Minister of Health and Social Services Bernhard Haufiku says sport and other gatherings can be successfully used to promote health among Namibians. In line with this, he was listing examples, such as HIV testing, Voluntary male circumcision and various others. Haufiku made these remarks during the 30th commemoration of World Aids Day, which took place at Okongo in the Ohangwena region over the weekend. Haufiku explained that the epidemic still remains a concern, especially considering the fact that some people have not gotten tested for HIV, which makes it impossible for them to know their status in order to protect themselves and others. So far, about 86% of people living with HIV know their status, and 96% of those infected with HIV are on treatment. “Wherever people meet, whenever festivities such as Christmas that is upcoming, are happening, whenever there is a soccer match, we are talking about young people” Haufiku said. He also explained that whenever there is a church service people should make use of these gatherings to promote the message of prevention, testing, treatment and care and only then can they truly eliminate the epidemic. Haufiku further advocated for the maximum usage of health extension workers in order to ease the burden on hospitals, which at times forces patients to stand in queues for long hours. He stressed the importance of knowing the preventative measures as well as the importance of taking one's medications. Ultimately, people should protect themselves by getting the knowledge as to how HIV is spread to be able to protect their families, community and fellow countrymen and women. “I compare this to a boxing match. If you are in the ring, the referee always says, "protect yourself at all times"- this is my message to Namibians” he added. Recent research has shown that the Zambezi region is topping the statistics with the HIV prevalence rate standing at 22%, followed by Ohangwena region with an 18% prevalence rate. This year's commemoration was held under the theme "Empowering girls and young women against HIV and teenage pregnancy".