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Zambia Bans Distribution of Condoms in Schools to Prevent "Immorality"
March 16, 2004 Zambia has banned the distribution of condoms in schools -- an effort begun to fight HIV/AIDS -- saying the initiative was promoting immorality and pre-marital sex. "The distribution of condoms to young boys and girls could, instead of protecting them from HIV/AIDS, encourage them to engage in premature sex," Education Minister Andrew Mulenga said in a statement. The activists and non-governmental organizations that had been distributing the condoms to pupils denounced the move. "We can't continue living in denial," said Nkandu Luo, a former health minister turned AIDS activist. "We need to protect the young from this deadly disease." An estimated one in five adults in Zambia is believed to be HIV-positive.
Back to other news for March 16, 2004 Agence France Presse 03.15.04 This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. |