Bole, Feb. 15 GNA - An NGO in Tamale dedicated to providing care and support for Persons Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) and their families has appealed to the government to channel part of the HIPC funds to support PLWHAs particularly those in the northern part of the country to improve their living standard.

Mr. Andrew Peyi Saibu, Country Director of the Positive Steps Partnership (POSPEP) Ghana, said: "The direction of the HIPC funds in building schools, clinics and others infrastructure is in the right direction but these facilities will be useless if steps are not taken to ensure that people live to use them".

Mr. Saibu was addressing tutors and school children at a volley ball and quiz competition to mark Valentines Day, at Bole. The aim was to engage the youth in Bole one of the HIV/AIDS endemic towns in the country in games and educational activities to divert their attention from indulging in promiscuous activities associated the Day.

Mr. Saibu regretted that funds were allocated to communities for development projects without recognizing whether or not the citizens were living healthier lives.

He pointed out that the HIV/AIDS situation in Ghana was still alarming and called for more positive steps to address the pandemic and called for sustained care and support for those living with the disease as a means of integrating them into the society.

Mr. Adam Achanso, Bole District Chief Executive stressed the importance and dangers of the Day and called on the youth not to misconstrue the meaning to engage in immoral activities. He gave the assurance that the District Assembly would work tirelessly with other NGO's to ensure that PLWHA were taken care for to prolong their lives.

Mr Alhassan Amadu, Northern Regional Population Officer advised the youth not hide under Valentine celebrations to indulge in acts that would endanger their lives.

St. Kizito "A" JSS emerged winners of both the volleyball and quiz competitions. All the female students who took part in the quiz were given 10 exercise books each. 15 Feb 05