01/12/2024
Livingstone Social Worker Urges Men to Take Responsibility in the Fight Against HIV
By Chali Mulenga
Livingstone, Zambia – Renowned social worker Joseph Moyo has issued a passionate call to action for men to take responsibility in combating the spread of HIV. Speaking from his extensive experience working with communities, Moyo highlighted the critical role men play in the transmission and prevention of the virus, urging them to embrace openness and accountability in addressing their health challenges.
“Men’s silence is one of the greatest barriers to controlling HIV,” Moyo stated. “It is well-documented that many HIV infections are brought into families by men who fail to disclose their status. This silence is destroying families and lives.”
Women Leading the Way
Moyo noted that women often demonstrate greater responsibility when it comes to health challenges, including HIV. “When women discover their status, they disclose it to their partners. This transparency allows couples to take preventive measures, such as using protection or accessing medication to prevent mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy. Women’s openness has saved countless lives,” he explained.
In contrast, Moyo lamented, men frequently keep their status hidden. “Instead of disclosing their HIV-positive status, some men continue engaging in unprotected sexual activities, infecting their partners and contributing to the spread of the virus. This must change,” he emphasized.
Call for Change
Moyo stressed the importance of education and behavior change to address the stigma and cultural norms that deter men from speaking openly about their health. “We need to create a culture where men feel empowered to share their status and take preventive measures. Silence only leads to more harm,” he said.
He also urged men to take advantage of available HIV testing and counseling services. “Testing is not just about knowing your status; it’s about taking control of your life and protecting those y
