Simwinga E; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 2000 Jul 9-14; 13: abstract no. MoOrD262.
E. Simwinga, PO Box 32379, UNZA Vet-Hostels BF-08, Lusaka, Zambia, E-mail: emmasims@mailcity.com
Issues: In Zambia like other developing countries, approximately 85 percent of HIV/AIDS infections are sexually transmitted (USAID Report 1998). The sexual orientation however referred to in Zambia is heterosexuality. Therefore, every act of managing and preventing sexually transmitted infections works on the assumption that it is hereto sex. The reason being that other sexual orientation means where almost unheard of in the Zambian society until recently. This was sparked by the recent formation of LEGATRA (Lesbians, Gays and Transgender persons Association) has led into an uproar by the Zambian community, both in support and against it. Description: This paper describes the reception of the new sexual mode (homosexuality) in Zambia, and its place in AIDS prevention methods. There has not been a consensus among the political leader and the Zambian community as a whole, on the issue. The most profound immediate reaction by the majority, is to reject it at all costs. This reaction is influenced largely by the Christian moral standard. Especially that (a) Zambian is a declared Christian Nations. The ideology is spearheaded by the current republican President; Mr Frederick J T Chiluba He has publicly stated that homosexuality is unbiblical and against human nature and wondered if it is a right to be abnormal. He has also vowed that, there is no way his Government will support something abnormal: (b) Among many others who think differently, is prominent political leader, Dr Kenneth Kaunda (Former Head of State and currently President of UNIP) who said homosexuality is here to stay and Zambians should cool down and think about it carefully Although the issue saddens him personally, does not mean he should bury his face in the sand and declare the problem does not exist Within the midst of this debate, a number of people have come out in the open and confessed the existence of the sexual orientation. Conclusion: Homosexuality situation ought to be handled like it exists in the effort of curbing HIV/AIDS. The time is now to break the silence , through a rigorous awareness programme in the country
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Developing Countries
- Female
- Government
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Heterosexuality
- Homosexuality
- Humans
- Male
- Research
- Sexual Behavior
- Zambia
- organization & administration
Other ID:
UI: 102238197
From Meeting Abstracts