Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
First Lady Esther Lungu has called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders in ensuring that new HIV cases among youths and adolescents are significantly reduced.
Speaking during the launch of the Free to Shine Campaign in Lusaka, Mrs Lungu has urged young people in the country to uphold moral values and standards for the country to record a significant reduction in new HIV infections.
She has implored young girls to be mindful of relationships that expose them to risks.
Mrs Lungu notes with concern the slow pace at which new HIV infections are being reduced despite continued and sustained investments in HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment and care programmes being implemented.
She has also noted the need to come up with advocacy programmes targeted at young men who have not been spared by the HIV scourge.
Speaking at the same event, Higher Education Minister Brian Mushimba says surveillance will be enhanced in higher learning institutions to address to lecturer/student relationships.
And United Nations Resident Coordinator Dr Couba Mar Gadio says the attainment of the Vision 2030 requires political will, pledging the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the national response to HIV and AIDS especially among young people.