Zambia axes safe sex ads

The advertisements showed how to use a condom

By Ishbel Matheson in Lusaka

The Zambian Government has suspended a controversial television advertisment campaign which promotes safe sex through the use of condoms.

The move follows fierce criticism from churches who complained the campaign was encouraging promiscuity.

The adverts were aimed at curbing high rates of HIV infection, particularly among young people.

When the adverts were first aired on state-run television a couple of weeks ago, there was an outcry from church groups.

Uncomfortable subject

In one scene teenage girls talk frankly about sex and condoms. In another, how to use a condom is illustrated.

Health Minister Enoch Kavindele: Came under pressure

They were shown in a prime-time evening slot when parents and children traditionally watch television together.

But Zambian families rarely discuss sexual matters openly and many found the explicit nature of the adverts made for uncomfortable viewing.

At first the Health Ministry refused to stop the campaign, saying people needed to face up to reality.

Zambia has one of the highest rates of HIV infection in the world. A million people are thought to be living with the virus.

But in the face of continued criticism, not only from church leaders but also from government circles, the Minister for Health, Enoch Kavindele, said the television campaign would be suspended.

He said it would resume but only after the ads had been thoroughly reviewed and offensive material edited out.