Priest suggest solution for HIV fight

By PARKER TAMBUA
WITH growing challenges in the fight against HIV/AIDS in PNG, it is the bottom-up approach that impacts the solving of problems, according to Fr Joseph Tumbo, a Christian Leaders Alliance representative from the Highlands.
Fr Joseph outlined cultural, community and Biblical approaches as vital during his presentation at a workshop hosted by the PNG Christian Leaders Alliance (PNGCLA) on HIV/AIDS in Port Moresby yesterday.
“Though we understand the changing trend in our society with the outside influence, we have to find ways to preserve and restore our lost culture.
“That is what defines our behaviour in terms of moral ethics and it can change people’s behaviour,” Tumbo said.
“We should not import condoms, it is not our culture, the problem is the mindset.”
He said community approach coincided with culture “and we can educate people on HIV through cultural links, family, tribes and council wards to be effective.”
Tumbo said the biblical approach could change people’s thoughts through the Word of God.
“A person with HIV should be responsible for himself or herself and not spread it – that is murder and it is wrong biblically.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to know their status.”
Cardinal Sir John Ribat, the chairman of PNGCLA, urged pastors and churches not to be complacent and try to come up with strategies to address the issue.
He said if churches were to condemn people for using condoms and illicit sex, they should come with solutions to HIV/AIDS in PNG.
The two-day workshop ended yesterday.