Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza has advised the youth to use condoms if they cannot abstain from sex until they were either married or ready to "engage in sexual intercourse".

Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza has advised the youth to use condoms if they cannot abstain from sex until they were either married or ready to "engage in sexual intercourse".

He was addressing thousands of people who attended the June 16 Youth Daycelebrations at Driekoppies Stadium yesterday.

"In spite of progress that is being made to empower our youth, the burden of HIV-Aids continues to weigh negatively on the health profile and future prospects of our nation," Mabuza said.

"Our youth should adopt responsible sexual practices to ensure that the nation prevents the spread of this pandemic."

Mabuza said the leadership pedigree of the 1976 generation was defined by power and determination to change society for the better.

"I believe that our youth can defeat crime working together with communities," he added.