Retroviral drugs to be produced locally

Government is embarking on the production of retroviral drugs to ease the ordeal of HIV/AIDS patients in the country, President John Agyekum Kufuor said on Tuesday.

He said the national education on HIV/AIDS was on going to reduce the prevalence rate of the pandemic.

President Kufuor was addressing this year's Eid-Ul Fitr celebration at the Independence Square in Accra.

The day marks the end of the month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and prayers during which Muslims were expected to observe strict discipline, maintain high moral standards and to attain a high level of spirituality in order to be closer to their maker.

President Kufuor commended the Muslims for enduring the discipline that characterised the month-long fast of Ramadan and its successful completion.

"This is an act of faith and an indication that we can always achieve whatever we set our minds to, if only we are prepared to submit ourselves to the required discipline," he said.

President Kufuor said the Government introduced the National Health Insurance Scheme as a means of ensuring good health and also to remove the trauma individuals faced in making payment before receiving medical attention, even during emergency situations".

He, therefore, urged Ghanaians to subscribe to the scheme, when it became become operational in the various districts.

President Kufuor called on individual to take advantage of business opportunities like Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the President's Special Initiatives in salt, textiles, starch, garment and agriculture to improve their economic lives.

He urged parents to educate their children to equip them with the appropriate professions, skills and competences that would position them strategically to face the challenges of the day, adding "a well educated child has a head start over his less educated counterpart".

President Kufuor noted that the Government was working assiduously to enhance the opportunities of educating the youth throughout the country.

He expressed the hope that current peace prevailing in the country particularly in Dagbon Traditional Area and its immediate environs would hold to facilitate Government's efforts at bringing a permanent and lasting peace to the area.

The National Chief Imam, Alhaji Nuhu Sharabutu offered prayers for peace and prosperity for the country

The Guest of Honour at the celebration was Mr Issa Hayatou, President of Confederation of African Football (CAF).