HIV rights group supports call for condom distribution in schools
Condoms at the AIDS-awareness display
Image by: STRINGER SHANGHAI / REUTERS
Image by: STRINGER SHANGHAI / REUTERS
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi's recent call for condoms to be distributed in schools was welcomed by the National Association of People Living with HIV and Aids (Napwa) on Wednesday.
Secretary general Mluleki Zazini said in a statement that the HIV/Aids epidemic required a unique response, including the promotion of condom use and distribution in schools.
This would reduce high rates of teenage pregnancy, which often led to girls dropping out of school, and of sexually transmitted diseases.
"This will help South Africa to reach its target for the 50% reduction of new infections by 2016 and will save many lives of young people," Zazini said.
The Mercury reported on Monday that Motsoaledi had said condoms should be provided at schools where parents consented.
However, the African Christian Democratic Party and Inkatha Freedom Party raised concerns that this would encourage underage sexual activity.
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