Regional News of Monday, 2 February 2004

Source: GNA

Chieftaincy disputes retarding anti-AIDS campaign

Apam (C/R), Feb. 2, GNA - Chieftaincy disputes has been thwarting the efforts of anti-AIDS campaigners in Gomoa District. People from opposing factions refuse to attend HIV/AIDS programmes in which their opponents participated.

This came to light at a review meeting organised by the District AIDS Committee at Apam.

The meeting was to review the performances of the various departments in the previous year and to map-out strategies to fight the pandemic this year.

In an address, Mr Eric Akobeng, the District AIDS Focal Person called on Ghanaians not to see anti-AIDS campaign as a money making venture but as a social obligation to the nation.

Mr Akobeng, who is the District Budget Analyst exhorted the people not to wait for funds from Ghana AIDS Commission before embarking on AIDS programmes.

He appealed to members of the district committee to embark on an out-reach programmes to impart their knowledge on the pandemic to the people.

The Focal Person advised members of the committee to go for voluntary counselling and test VCT to know their HIV/AIDS status.