Churches campaign against AIDS

Nkoranza (B/A) Oct. 30, GNA - Nkoranza South District Local Council of Churches has undertaken a one month outreach programme to sensitize the people on the causes, effects and prevention of HIV/AIDS. About 150 members of various churches were put in groups and visited homes to share ideas with the people on how to curb the spread of the pandemic in the district.

The programme was sponsored by Ghana AIDS Commission in collaboration with Network of Registered Associations of Non-Governmental Organisation (NGOs) in Ghana. It also formed part of the 2009 Multi-Sector HIV /AIDS Programme (M-SHAP 2009) of the GAC to minimize the spread of the pandemic in the country.

To climax the programme, the volunteers wearing T-shirts with the inscription "AIDS kills" paraded through the principal streets of Nkoranza amidst brass band music. Addressing them later at the Methodist Wesley Church the Reverend Emmanuel Kojo Osei, Chairman of the council, cautioned the youth against illicit and pre-marital sex, which he said could lead them to contract HIV/AIDS.

He advised them to follow the teachings of the Bible, which should reflect in their social lives.

"Since you are the future leaders of Ghana, you should not relent in efforts to serve the country better," Rev. Osei added. Very Reverend John Quayson, Superintendent Minister in-charge of Nkoranza Wesley Methodist Church, commended the volunteers for their sacrifice and urged them to continue with the education of the people about HIV/AIDS. 30 Oct 09