25/06/2007

Local leaders in Uganda's Mityana district have been urged to provide more information on Aids to prevent youngsters believing spiritual leaders and healers can cure them, reports New Vision.

State minister for primary health care Emmanuel Otaala issued the warning at the launch of the HIV/Aids services provided by Mildmay Centre at Kyantungo Health Centre IV in Mityana district.

Despite the brave efforts of local charities and aid workers, there was still an alarming number of people who believed they could be cured of the disease through rituals and bewitching, Mr Otaala told the conference.

"Everyone must know that HIV/Aids still has no cure," he stressed. "Local leaders must sensitise the masses about this. Make sure that these healers and preachers do their work and avoid confusing the nation."

Mr Otaala added that the government was aiming for Uganda to become Aids free within ten years, but stressed that this could only be achieved if everyone was educated correctly and took onboard the advice from the medical officers.