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December 1st marks World Aids Day, which is observed around the world. South
Africa in particular is feeling the effects of HIV/AIDS more acutely than
most nations and the IFP believes that the Government needs to put more
effort into educating the youth about it, specifically in rural areas.

IFP Spokesperson on Health, Mrs Hilda Msweli MP, said, "Although our
Government is spending large sums of money on fighting HIV/AIDS, the need to
properly educate young people is often overlooked. The quality and approach
of sex education in schools should be evaluated, and parents should be
equipped to speak to their children about sex and its consequences."

Councillors and traditional leaders in rural communities need to take an
active role in talking about HIV/AIDS, helping communities come alongside
those who have contracted this disease in order to help them.

"We need the full involvement of communities in educating the younger
generation about the potential consequences of their choices when it comes
to sex. Let's be open about it, so that they will know how to avoid
contracting and spreading HIV. Our biggest fight may well be against the
prostitution of young people, especially along trucking routes. Many of the
truck drivers who engage prostitutes along the road never get tested, and
thus spread the disease. Our communities need help in our fight against
HIV/AIDS," said Msweli, "particularly our youngsters."