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SOUTH AFRICA: Top comedian tackles AIDS through film

[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 10 October (PLUSNEWS) - The South African political satirist, Pieter-Dirk Uys, has produced a video focusing on the fears and denials associated with the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

A local newspaper, The Star, quoted Uys as saying: "Due to HIV/AIDS being so shrouded in denials and stigma, entertainment is a way to confront fears and confusions."

He said while parents wanted a video to help them confront the issue of HIV/AIDS, young people needed a way of encouraging their parents to talk openly about the pandemic.

Plans are currently underway to distribute 30,000 copies of the educational satire, "Survival AIDS", at no cost to all of the country's schools, universities, prisons and hospitals.

Uys has urged businesses to help finance distribution of a minimum of 500 copies of the video at US $7 per unit.

[ENDS]

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