—-Luangwa District Commissioner, Eunie Mumba, says Voluntary Counselling and Testing VCT day is not an activity in isolation but part of a bigger picture in accelerating HIV prevention
Speaking in Luangwa District at Mangelengele Community School where he addressed scores of residents who were underwent VCT, Mr Mumba said people should continue seeking VCT to ensure they are equipped with knowledge of protecting themselves.
He noted that it was encouraging to see more people getting involved in the fight against HIV and AIDS, adding that it was a clear indication of a better future.
The DC said counselling needs to be strengthened to help people deal with HIV and AIDS, adding that 60 per cent of HIV transmission happens in marriages.
Mr Mumba said VCT is important for the country as it continues to work towards achieving universal access to HIV prevention.
Mr Mumba said government introduced a deliberate policy of free Anti Retroviral Treatment (ART) to increase availability of access to essential medicines in the health centres.
And AIDS field coordinator at Katondwe Mission Hospital, Kenneth Chuni, said national the VCT day in Luangwa was conducted by Churches Health Association of Zambia CHAZ.
Mr Chuni said over 200 Luangwa residents were tested and encourage more people to take advantage of the facility and know their HIV status.