First Lady urges Zambians not to relent in fight against HIV

First Lady Esther Lungu has urged Zambians not to relent in their pursuit of an HIV free Zambia.

In a speech read on her behalf by health Minister Joseph Kasonde during the launch of the revised national AIDS framework 2014-2016, Mrs. Lungu says there is still need to remain persistently set on the response to HIV/AIDS as the task of virtual elimination of HIV from Zambia is still a challenging one.

Mrs. Lungu notes that the country has not done well in as far as treatment coverage for children and adolescents is concerned.

She says there is need to stand together in the common cause for good health and its innumerable potential benefits.

The First Lady adds that there is need to take full cognizance that an HIV free generation tomorrow needs investment in the young people of today, stating that if the country fails to protect its youth from HIV infection, it is failing its future.

Mrs. Lungu says as a way of safeguarding the country’s gains and ensuring implementation of planned programmes, the need to increase the local financial support to the HIV response cannot be over emphasized.

She further states that it is possible for the country to attain Zero new infections, Zero stigma and discrimination and zero Aids related deaths.

Mrs Lungu says her office stands ready to support any efforts aimed at addressing HIV related challenges.

And National Aids Council (NAC) Director General Jabin Mulwanda says more needs to be done if the country has to attain an HIV free generation.