Accra, June 7, Accra- Hajia Alima Mahama, Minister of Women and Children's Affairs, has expressed concern about the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country, and called on the citizenry, especially the youth to support the fight against the pandemic.

She said there was the need to keep the population, particularly the youth healthy, since they are indispensable in the socio-economic and political development of the country.

Hajia Mahama made the observation in a speech read on her behalf by her Special Assistant, Mrs Asare Bediako at a forum organized by the New Era Women and Youth Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, working to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS amongst the youth, at Nima, Accra. Hajia Mahama said the Ministry would support all HIV/AIDS programmes adding: " The Ministry will not sit back and see the youth perish prematurely".

She advised Ghanaians not to share objects like syringes, blades and scissors since they are modes of HIV/AIDS transmission. Mrs Mary Asamoah Bonsu, Principal Nursing Officer at the Adabraka Polyclinic, advised Ghanaians, especially people with the intention of getting married to undergo HIV test. Hajia Dameta Safenmane, a midwife at the Polyclinic, reminded the public that there was no cure for HIV/AIDS and cautioned against sexual promiscuity.