One of Ghana’s most sought-after saxophonists and UNAIDS Protect the Goal Goodwill Ambassador Steve Bedi is calling on Ghanaians youth to practice safe to protect themselves against the deadly viral disease, HIV/AIDS.
He noted that HIV/AIDS is real hence the youth must not be negligent by indulging in unprotected sexual intercourse.
Steve Bedi gave the advised when he arrived in Ghana after a three-day visit to Malawi to support the country’s invigoration of the global Protect the Goal campaign’ to raised awareness about HIV/AIDS.
The campaign is one in a series of activities which Malawi’s National AIDS Commission (NAC), Joint United Nations Team on HIV and IADS (UNAIDS) and their partners are undertaking to re-invigorate HIV prevention in the country particularly among young people.
The renowned saxophonists participated in several activities including teaming up with Malawi’s Skefa Chimoto for a musical collaboration.
He described his experience with HIV/AIDS affected children as an awakening in his life.
“I wept when I saw the children and I said to myself what future will such children have” he bemoaned. Steve Bedi said he encouraged the Malawians to go for HIV/ADIS test, use condoms and urged the uncircumcised men to get circumcised to avoid getting infected.
He was particular happy the Malawi President, Professor Peter Mutharika showed leadership by signing up to the Global Ball.
The Jazz artist believes he has made a mark in the lives of the youth in Malawi because “my jazz music resonates with the youth”.
He commended Ghana for making giant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS but was worried about the stigmatization and discrimination against persons living with HIV and AIDS in the country.
Steve Bedi was welcomed at the Kotoka International Airport by officials of UNAIDS including the Country Direct, Mr. Girmay Haile.
