Stop stigmatizing people with HIV/AIDS

Busunya (B/A), Sept. 1, GNA - Major Derek Oduro (rtd), Member of Parliament for Nkoranza North, has deplored the stigmatization of people living with HIV/AIDS by some members of the public.

He said "every individual is at risk of contracting the disease and we need to show love and compassion for HIV/AIDS victims to help reduce the spread of the pandemic".

Major Oduro was speaking at a sensitization workshop at Busunya in the district, organised by the Network of Associations of Registered Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Ghana .

He condemned the practice by some people "to shun HIV/AIDS victims and will not share anything in common with them", saying such attitude was tantamount to abuse of the freedom and rights of the victims.

The MP urged parents and teachers to collaborate to educate the people on the effects of pre-marital and illicit sexual practices and to save them from contracting HIV/AIDS.

The HIV/AIDS menace has become a serious challenge facing Ghana , as the active and reproductive youth have proved vulnerable to the disease, Major Oduro said.

Mr. Kofi Lucas, President of the NGO emphasised that HIV/AIDS had no cure and cautioned the public to be wary of their sexual habits to free themselves from it.

He advised religious leaders to use the pulpit to educate the people about the pandemic.

Mr. Benjamin Adu Darko, Presiding Member of the Nkoranza North District Assembly, commended the NGO for organising the workshop.

Madam Vivian Bayere, a nurse at the Busunya Health Centre advised the people to visit the centre to check their HIV/AIDS status.

GNA