repackage the HIV/AIDS messages to encourage the youth to change their sexual behaviour.

"We need to protect the youth who are our future leaders and productive workforce of the nation," he said.

Mr Alhassan A. Baako, the District Chief Executive appealed to the traditional authorities and religious leaders to commit resources to fight the HIV/AIDS.

He noted that the fight against HIV/AIDS should not be limited to durbars and workshops but rather more pragmatic interventions should be embarked on to reach out to the people in communities.

Chief Kunkundana Yusif Salifu Abdullah, Executive Director of NORDA noted that traditions and cultures could facilitate or be detrimental to the campaign against HIV/AIDS, depending on how people understand, perceive and apply them.

He urged the traditional council to mobilise resources for development and to encourage the youth to go into productive ventures.

Mr Alhassan Issahaku Amadu, Regional Director of National Population Council who spoke on: "The Role of Traditional Authorities in HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care and Support", urged traditional authorities to foster family and community cooperation.