GICUMBI - Youth in Gicumbi have been advised to abstain from sex or use condoms as the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS in the district intensifies.

The Director of Byumba Health centre, Papias Iyakaremye made the remarks while addressing representatives of youth councils in Byumba Sector, yesterday.

"As future leaders, it is your responsibility to refrain from unsafe sex by using condoms, abstinence and being loyal to your partners,” he said.

Iyakaremye further advised the already infected youth to use ARV’s and desist from infecting others. He went on to encourage the married couples to plan their families and produce children they can cater for.

"A few children enables more access to essential amenities such as education and health services,” he added.
Iyakaremye also advised expectant mothers to deliver from health centres so as to ensure safe delivery.

The Byumba Sector executive secretary, Jean Marie Vianey Gahano, reiterated the need for the youth to desist from drugs and alcohol abuse, saying they facilitate unprotected sex.

The HIV/AIDS youth awareness campaign is being sponsored by IntraHealth’s HIV/AIDS Clinical Services Program (HCSP).

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