HIV and GBV activist Criselda Kananda awarded an honorary doctorate

Media personality and HIV and GBV activist Criselda Kananda has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Zululand.

She was honoured with a doctorate of philosophy in social work for her radio work, motivational speaking and role as a counsellor and nurse. She said she was excited about being awarded her certificate by vice-chancellor Xoliswa Mtose.

The ceremony was held on Monday, 7 December at the university’s Bhekuzulu Hall in KwaDlangezwa, near Empangeni in northern KZN. Among challenges Criselda has faced was living as a street kid, being abused as a child and in her marriage, and living with HIV.

The presenter, who’s been living with HIV for almost 22 years, told Daily Sun she was humbled.

“God is great and I’m happy my work of raising awareness and teaching people has been recognised by one of the country’s older universities, which turns 60 this year,” she said.

Criselda said the doctorate encouraged her to work harder to improve people’s lives.

Criselda said she believed Mzansi could still do more to stop gender-based violence.

“We need to go back to the drawing board and start to teach young boys about abuse,” she said.

“What hurts is that GBV always starts at home.”

Criselda said she was not permanently working in the radio industry, but she often visited Umhlobo Wenene FM to teach and motivate people on air.