Music concert against AIDS staged

A TWO-DAY public concert through music and entertainment known as Hip-Hop Artists Against AIDS is being organised to sensitise and educate youths to stay free of HIV/AIDS.

The concert, which is slated to begin on July 11 at the Leaders Club, will start from 12pm to 7.00pm. It is organised by Family Health International's 'UJANA project'.

This a youth-focused HIV prevention project supported by the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PERFAR) through United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The concert that will feature Tanzanian Hip-Hop artistes and Native Deen, an American Hip-Hop artiste touring Tanzania. It is designed to help Tanzanian musicians recognise the role they can play in prevention and spread of HIV/AIDS.

"Music is a powerful medium because it touches and affects young people and their behaviours. This is why it is so important that musicians get involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS," said Taji Liundi, TACAIDS Youth Commissioner.

In addition, the Senior Technical Advisor - Family Health International (FHI), Dr Ramirez Ferreo, said "In Tanzania, youth aged 15-24 make up 20 per cent of the population. However, this same group accounts for over 60 per cent of new HIV. This calls for special attention to be given to this group."

The Hip-Hop artistes, who will speak out against AIDS at the concert, include AY, Fid Q, Joe Makini, Banana Zorro and many more. Music performances and education sessions on HIVAIDS will be conducted, including quizes.


source:www.dailynews-tsn.com