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As the world observed World Aids Day on the 1 December, South Africa used the opportunity to reflect on the gains made in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

This year World Aids Day was commemorated under the theme: “Zero Stigma and Discrimination”.

While the country has made strides in fighting the disease over the past 20 years, Vuk’uzenzele takes a look at the country’s achievements since 2009.

2009: The start of SA’s HIV, AIDS revolution

In 2009 President Jacob Zuma unveiled South Africa’s AIDS policy. The following was announced:

Infrastructure

Residents of Soweto will now find it a little easier to leave their cars at home and take to the streets on a bicycle instead.

Infrastructure

The opening of Transnet Wagons Refurbishing Facility in De Aar has injected economic activity into the quiet town south of Kimberly, Northern Cape.

This was a year in which we reflected frequently on our nation’s achievements during 20 Years of Freedom – 20 years that brought opportunity and hope to millions of our people.

It is what every citizen hopes for – a government that listens to their needs and then delivers services that address those needs.

Thanks to the opening of the Giyani Water Treatment Works, 55 villages in Mopani District Municipality will receive clean running water.

Aspiring young, black filmmakers in South Africa now have the chance see their productions come to life, thanks to a new fund set up for local emerging filmmakers.

The South African National Defence Force will deploy more than 1 500 troops to the African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crises (ACIRC), which will help ensure stability on the continent.

The troops who will be sent to ACIRC have been undergoing intensive training to prepare themselves for any situation they may face on the African continent.

Sport, arts and culture

Sport Minister Fikile Mbalula says Team SA’s outstanding performance at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is a clear indication that sport in South Africa is on the rise.