A NEW HIV-Aids campaign aimed at young boys and men has been launched.

A NEW HIV-Aids campaign aimed at young boys and men has been launched.

Brothers for Life focuses on the role men should play in the fight against Aids. The campaign aims to address the risks associated with having multiple and concurrent partners, men's limited involvement in fatherhood, the lack of knowledge of HIV status by many, low levels of testing and disclosure.

Launching the campaign recently, in KwaMashu, Durban, Deputy Health Minister Molefi Sefularo said: "If we want to win the fight against HIV-Aids, we have to work together.

"We are happy to see that men are making an effort to prevent and reduce HIV infections.

"The department fully supports the campaign. We are honoured to unveil their manifesto and to receive their pledge, a token of their commitment to play a role in the development and emancipation of women and protection of children," Sefularo said.

The Brothers for Life campaign is a joint effort by the South African National Aids Council, Department of Health, USAid-Pepfar, Johns Hopkins Health and Education in South Africa, Sonke Gender Justice and the United Nations.

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe, who also chairs Sanac, sent a message in support of the campaign.

He said: "The government supports all initiatives to minimise HIV infections, strengthen family values and to contribute towards the rebuilding of the moral fabric of society.

"Our key approach to dealing with HIV remains prevention, treatment, care and support, which require invigorated social partnerships."