GGML Kili Challenge targets 2.6bn/-funding for fight against HIV/AIDS

GEITA: THE Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) has called on all Tanzanians to help raise 1m US dollars (approximately 2.6bn/-) to support the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The funds will be raised through the GGML Kili Challenge, an annual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing campaign scheduled to take place from July 24 to 30, 2026, under the theme, “It Is Everyone’s Responsibility.”

The Acting GGML General Manager Mr Duan Campbell made the remarks during the company’s Health Day event held recently, noting that the campaign was officially launched on June 30, 2026.

Mr Campbell said that every year representatives from GGML, its contractors, and various private sector institutions come together to participate in the initiative, which aims to promote health and safety awareness.

“Although climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is symbolic, the main objective is to continue raising public awareness and supporting the nation’s efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” he said.

He added that the GGML Kili Challenge Against HIV/AIDS is a national initiative coordinated annually by GGML in collaboration with the Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS) to help prevent new HIV infections and reduce the impact of the epidemic.

Geita Regional Medical Officer, Dr Omar Sukari, said the region is estimated to have about 95,000 people living with HIV, but only 80 percent know their HIV status.

Dr Sukari said the 2025 GGML Kili Challenge raised  100m/-, which was used to support HIV/AIDS response activities and strengthen various intervention programmes.

“We are proud of everyone who dedicated their time, energy and commitment to represent GGML in this important campaign,” Dr Sukari said.

Geita District Administrative Secretary Lucy Beda urged Geita residents to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS, stressing that one of the most important measures is to develop the habit of regular health screening and adopting appropriate preventive practices.

Ms Beda said routine health screening enables people to know their health status early, live with confidence, and seek timely treatment when necessary.

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“I urge everyone to join hands and contribute. No contribution is too small when it comes to saving the lives of Tanzanians and strengthening the national HIV/AIDS response,” she said.

She added that the government has invested significantly in health education and healthcare services, and therefore young people should intensify efforts to protect themselves from HIV infection.

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