South Sudan women sensitize communities on HIV/AIDS

October 28, 2009 (KHARTOUM) — The Southern Sudan HIV and Aids Commission today said has embarked on an HIV/ AIDS programme to sensitize the community on dangers of the pandemic.

The Chairperson, Dr. Belhario Ahoy Ngong from Juba, told Sudan Tribune that lots of factors including practice of polygamy have contributed to the increase in HIV infections in Africa

He further said “people are ignorant about HIV/ AIDS. They still believe in witchcraft.”

He also mentioned the polygamy as additional cause of the disease. “It is sad that they seem to find pleasure in marrying more than one wife. It is a dangerous and risky practice.”

He said it is encouraging that his commission works closely with traditional leaders in the area to discourage polygamy.

Traditional leaders are used as channels to disseminate information on HIV/ AIDS to their subjects, he adds.

The Chairperson further added that it is saddening that parents and guardians marry off their children at an early age. “This practice also puts young girls at risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections,” he said.

“We successful fought and negotiated the peace but it is hard negotiating this disease if we are not fully determined to remain faithful to partners,” he said.

(ST)